During the Rowlett City Council Work Session on December 2, 2024, citizen Justin Marston addressed the council regarding the existing tree ordinance, emphasizing the need for improvements to better protect the city's tree canopy. Marston, a resident of Flamingo Drive, highlighted several key points that he believes could enhance the current regulations.

One of Marston's main suggestions was to implement a replacement ratio that increases with the size of the tree being removed. He argued that larger trees take significantly longer to grow back, and therefore, stricter guidelines should be established to discourage their removal. Currently, the ordinance protects trees that are 8 inches in diameter or larger, but Marston pointed out that many other cities have lower thresholds, starting at 6 inches or even 4 inches. He advocated for a revision of the ordinance to align with these more stringent standards.

Additionally, Marston proposed that the city consider hiring a consultant with expertise in tree ordinances to assist in revising the existing regulations. He also suggested reallocating some of the city's tree funds to support various projects, including park construction, design consultation, and general maintenance, as well as opportunities for acquiring new land and building trails.

The discussion around the tree ordinance reflects a growing awareness of environmental sustainability and the importance of preserving natural resources within the community. As urban development continues, the council's response to these recommendations could significantly impact Rowlett's green spaces and overall ecological health.

The meeting concluded without further citizen input, leaving the council to consider Marston's proposals and their implications for future policy decisions regarding tree preservation in Rowlett.