Just realized the city's plan to replace our street's oak trees is dividing plant lovers

I saw yellow tags on the big oak trees on my block a few days ago. Found out the city wants to remove them and plant smaller trees that use less water. A bunch of folks are mad, saying these oaks are part of our neighborhood's history and give cool shade in hot months. On the other side, people argue that with the dry spells we've had, it's smart to pick plants that save water. I walk my dog here every day and I'm stuck, I love the old trees but I also hate wasting water. It feels like choosing between keeping what we know and fixing a real problem. How do other botany fans deal with this kind of stuff? Curious to hear your take on saving old trees vs going for water-wise plants.