City Council Grants Final Approval for Redwood Removal Project The Seattle City Council voted on February 21, 2026 to allow property owner David Shearer to proceed with a development that includes cutting down a 100‑year‑old coastal redwood on a steep 17,000‑sq‑ft lot [1]. The decision follows a two‑year period of formal challenges filed with the Department of Construction and Inspections by nearby residents [1]. Officials noted the approval satisfies a “critical housing shortage” despite the environmental impact [1].

Developer Plans Two‑Residence Complex Requiring Retaining Wall Shearer intends to build a second home on the property, necessitating a retaining wall that will intersect the historic tree [1]. Early design drafts show removal of up to four trees to accommodate the wall and additional structures [1]. Shearer told KING 5 he “loves trees” but views the loss as an unavoidable side effect of expanding housing supply [1].

Neighbors Organize Protests as Tree‑Felling Approaches Local activist Julie Tokashiki Skerritt leads a neighborhood group that has opposed the removal for nearly two years, describing the loss as “devastating” and a blow to community green space [1]. Residents plan a gathering on Sunday to draw attention to the impending work, even though the city has already authorized the cut [1]. The tree‑removal operation is slated for the week following the protest, intensifying tensions between developers and the community [1].

Housing Shortage Cited as Primary Justification for Tree Loss Shearer framed the project as a response to Seattle’s urgent need for additional housing, arguing that the new residences will help alleviate the city’s shortage [1]. He acknowledged community concerns but maintained that the development’s benefits outweigh the environmental cost [1]. Critics argue the justification does not compensate for the irreversible loss of a century‑old natural landmark [1].