Jeff Grey, who has served the Town of Southern Pines since August 29, 1989, will retire Friday as the Arborist for this Tree City USA-recognized community. A native of Southern Pines, Grey grew up in the neighborhood around North Ridge and Vermont Avenue, where his formative—some might say formidable—years were spent.
Grey earned an Associate of Applied Science in Landscape Gardening from Sandhills Community College. His career with the Town began as a grounds specialist, and after acquiring additional training and certification, he was appointed Arborist five years ago.
“I remember when Southern Pines was still a resort town,” Grey recalled. “There were only a couple of thousand people here during the off-season.” Reflecting on the growth since then, he simply said, “A lot has changed.”
As the Town Arborist, Grey’s primary responsibility was to oversee the health and safety of Southern Pines’ trees. He focused on the trees owned by the Town, including those in parks, on building grounds, and along street rights-of-way. Much of his time was spent inspecting trees, identifying those needing pruning or care, and occasionally deciding which needed removal for various reasons. “Getting paid to care for the trees around Town is what I’ll miss the most,” Grey remarked.
“Most people don’t realize that the trees along roadways are actually owned by the Town,” Grey explained. He noted that some residents mistakenly believe they own these trees and have, at times, inadvertently cut down trees that belong to the Town. “In those cases, we give the homeowner or contractor the chance to replant trees either in the same spot or elsewhere to make up for it,” he said. In rare instances, fines are imposed, which, as Grey pointed out, “aren’t cheap.”
In retirement, Grey plans to spend more time in his own yard, working through a long “honey-do” list. “I’m still a certified arborist, so I see myself doing some work for people as needed,” he added.
Contributed/Courtesy photo.
