Employees of JT Tree Service cut down the West Liberty “Christmas” tree this morning. The decision to cut down the village landmark has been a point of controversy between village council members and some residents for years now. There was concern that the tree’s root system had outgrown the area in which it was planted and could topple and endanger passing motorists. There was no discussion about cutting the tree down at the village’s regular Monday meeting. However, council had previously voted for the tree to come down, and is committed to replanting a new tree in its place that is more suitable for that area in front of the village’s town hall at 201 N. Detroit St. A Facebook group called Save The West Liberty Christmas Tree was formed about three years ago in an attempt to prevent the tree from being taken down. (PHOTO | SCOTT DAVIS)