One thing has emerged from the ongoing debate over the fate of the Council Oak Tree located between the School of Nursing and the McIntyre Library: The administration needs to be sensitive when deciding whether to save the tree or chop it down for the new Davies Center.

But regardless of the measures taken by the university, we feel that the project should still move on as planned.

Though it is unfortunate that the literal symbol of our university will be lost, the reality is that the community and the university knew the tree was there long before the planning of the new student center.

It is puzzling that the big tree is just now causing a big stir, and not last year when multiple open discussion sessions were held for community members to voice their concerns.

Obviously all possible steps to ease the concerns of the American Indian community should be taken, but we feel it is too late to save the tree. Too much time and money has been poured into the project, especially considering the many opportunities the community had to voice this issue in the first place.

In respect to those concerned about the tree, we understand Chancellor Brian Levin-Stankevich’s decision to keep the site of the center, but seek modifications in the design to protect the tree.

The problem with that, however, is that redrawing plans so far into the process could cost millions-a bill that would be footed by students.

Considering the tree that stands between the School of Nursing and McIntyre Library is not even the original council oak and is in fact, the only survivor of multiple attempts to replace the first council oak, we feel that if anything it’s the sacred ground that should be preserved.

Obviously a plaque or a memorial is not as grand or beautiful as an oak tree, but at this point such a reminder of the tree is a more appropriate answer.

We encourage the university to allow the American Indian community to bring in a medicine man to ask spirits living in the tree to move on. Any and all ceremonies needed to preserve what is left of the tree’s spiritual meaning should be welcome.

But at this point, the building plans are already too far along and accommodating the tree would take too much time and student money.