This is not a complaint about moving the White House off Sherman Avenue. I think it’s a great idea. I’m glad this classic home is being preserved. My concern is all of the old-growth trees that surround the White House. Those beautiful, old trees have been here longer than the city of Coeur d’Alene.

I live in what is called the “Garden District.” In the last several years, I’ve witnessed numerous older homes removed and replaced. Old-growth ponderosas and various fir trees have been chopped down. Large, box-style homes or condos take up every inch of the 50-by-100-foot lots. They look out of place next to well-preserved, turn-of-the-century homes, shaded by gorgeous, old-growth trees.

Is Coeur d’Alene still the City of Trees? Or will developers and elected city officials continue to destroy our neighborhoods for a profit? The real question is how many of the 18 trees surrounding the White House will be cut down and what will replace this majestic home. I’m sure someone knows what big development is planned… Can anyone answer my questions?

JAMES ACKERMAN

Coeur d’Alene