Olathe starts Christmas tree hunt early

Olathe officials apparently believe in getting well ahead of schedule, as they are already hunting for a Christmas tree.

The City of Olathe is getting ready for a number of jolly events, including lighting the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, and Celebrate Olathe. The latter is an event held every quarter, both to celebrate the city and the season.

The tree lighting takes place in Stagecoach Park, with the tree decorated and then lit with hundreds of lights of all colors. Recently, Olathe families have been donating blue spruce trees to the event. The city is now asking members of the community if they would consider giving one of their trees to Olathe for the celebration.

Specifically, the city is looking for a blue spruce that is in good condition and stands between 20 and 30 feet tall. The tree chosen will be removed free of change, and the stump will be ground down, also at no cost to the owner. The “parents” of the tree will be recognized at the tree lighting, and the donation can be written off for tax purposes. Flyer printing can be used to disseminate information on matters like this.

Residents who have a tree they would like to donate should contact Rick Spurgeon, the City Arborist, at 913-971-9725, or Marty Behm, the Superintendent of Parks & Recreation, 913-971-9703.

The tree lighting this year is set for December 6.