Fifteen trees vandalized at park

Fifteen eucalyptus trees were vandalized this week at Gibbs Park in Huntington Beach, just days after the City Council voted to offer a $500 reward to residents who help police catch tree vandals.

The trees were destroyed some time overnight Tuesday and Wednesday, city spokeswoman Laurie Payne said. The estimated value, she said, was $7,500, or $500 per tree. The trees were planted as part of a restoration project in Gibbs Park that started in April 2008.

“The city takes this very seriously,” Payne said in a statement. “These trees represent more than just money — they have been planted by volunteers who took the time to make the park more beautiful. These vandals are destroying more than trees — they are destroying Boy and Girl scout projects and donations from the HB Tree Society.”

Following the council’s vote Monday, the City Attorney plans to return with a resolution to adopt the $500 reward program. Once the council approves the resolution, the city may begin offering the rewards.

— Michael Miller