In years to come, those going to Town Hall may catch a lemony scent in the spring breeze — emitted by the creamy white cup shaped flowers of the newly planted Sweetbay Magnolia tree.

As nature transitions for summer, two ivory silk Japanese Lilac trees will begin producing large plumes of lightly scented small, white flowers that will last the whole season. 

In late September, two Black Tupelo trees will begin to bear dark blue fruit for migrating birds and various woodland creatures. And as the weather gets colder, the leaves will begin to change to scarlet, orange and gold in the fall.

It will also be the time for the red and orange of the three October Glory Maples to shine. A hearty tree that can grow one to two feet a year, it is said to live on average 80 to 100 years old.

“It’s a variety that has been produced in cultivation through selective breeding,” noted Ann Parson, chair of the Tree Committee, during a celebration for the eight newly planted trees at Town Hall Friday, May 30. 

“When our Tree Committee started several years ago, there was an arborist in New Bedford, Chance Perks, who said, ‘You should pick places — little pockets around town — that need trees,’” Parson said — this strip of Slocum Road immediately came to mind as there were a number of trees in bad condition.

The committee started at the middle school, planting three London Planes, three Red Maples and two swamp white oak trees in October 2024. Around that same time, the two Black Tupelo trees were planted at Town Hall. Thanks to funds from a donor, the committee had the opportunity to plant an additional six.

“Our whole concept here is to see a whole row of trees stretching all the way down the block and as they get bigger they’ll fill in,” Parson said, adding that she hopes this inspires everyone to plant trees.

Tim Barber, director of Public Works and tree warden, noted there are a number of older trees in need of removal throughout town that his department is also working on, including the ash trees that are currently infested with a beetle.

He added he looks forward to working with the Tree Committee on some other areas of town in the coming years.

Committee member Adam Korejwa highlighted how those who come to Town Hall and the middle school will be able to enjoy the new trees — from the basic process of providing oxygen to its shade. 

“Some of the children at the middle school, right next door, taking a moment from their studies, may look out of the window at one of these trees and find a friend or an object of wonder and inspiration, nourishing their imagination and interest in learning about the world,” he said.

“Trees do so many things for others and ask so little in return,” he added. “A life of service, perhaps, though I like to think of their lives more as unstoppable expressions of joy overflowing in abundance and generosity. It may seem a small matter to have planted a few trees here, but I'd push back on that.”