Gov. Lamont assumes responsibility for removal of trees in an environmentally protected area near his Greenwich home

Gov. Ned Lamont has taken responsibility for the removal of trees from an environmentally protected area near his home in Greenwich.

The issue was addressed in a Special Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency meeting on Monday, but the panel deferred action so both sides could find a path forward.

Officials said the removal could lead to fines for Lamont, his neighbors and the local neighborhood Association, which together, according to public records, own much of the property in question.

"I think at the end of the day, I'm responsible, and the Association is. They hired a contractor to do the work. I think the contractor, frankly, went beyond the scope a little bit," said Lamont.

The removal of trees from a protected wetlands near his property which took place without the proper permits back in November, led a neighbor to complain to Greenwich officials, according to public records.

"I didn't know you needed a written permit to clean up a dead tree, but now I know, and it will never happen again," said Lamont.

The governor clarified that removing the trees did not enhance his view of the nearby lake, contrary to some claims.