By B.N. Frank

Communities across the U.S. are struggling with an increasing homeless population.  Recently the homeless in one New Jersey township found themselves with less places to take refuge.  Of course, they aren't the first American community to have shade trees cut to deter the homeless.  Additionally, birds and other animals that had been living in those trees have been affected too.

From App:

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Lakewood cut down Town Square trees to deter homeless

Juan Carlos Castillo (Asbury Park Press)

LAKEWOOD – The township cut down all of the shade trees that once lined Town Square in a controversial move designed to prevent homeless people from spending time there.

Mayor Ray Coles said the decision was made after a recommendation from the Police Department Quality of Life Unit, which the township said was triggered by numerous complaints from residents and township employees about homeless people defecating and urinating in the area.