MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The Township Board unanimously approved a resolution seeking a permit variance related to the construction of the Georgetown Subdivision.

Current standards for the permit would have required an old Oak tree on Cornell Road to be chopped down for the subdivision to be built. The permit variance the Township is requesting would wave this requirement so the tree can stay.

"This is a particularly spectacular tree," said Township Treasurer Julie Brixie. "It's a beautiful health oak tree it contributes greatly to the canopy over the street and really the rural character of Meridian Township. it should be able to stay and remain a beautiful feature of the natural beauty that's Cornell Road."

Brixie said she became involved in the process when a resident called and asked her about what was happening on Cornell Road. The tree became endangered when the Eyde Company planned to build a public road that leads into the Georgetown Subdivision.

"I have had many residents calling me and thanking me for my efforts to save the tree," she said.

Brixie said she is concerned clearing trees that line the road would encourage drivers to speed. Despite the amount of support for the permit variance from the community and its unanimous passing, the Ingham County has the final say.