Milwaukee Council Debates Tree Code Clarity and Affordable Property Maintenance Solutions

Milwaukie City Council is taking significant steps to address tree management and community safety following a recent meeting on July 15, 2025. The council discussed the ongoing challenges of balancing tree preservation with property maintenance, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines in the city's tree code.

During the session, council members expressed concerns about the current rigidity of the tree code, which some believe may impose undue financial burdens on residents. Councilor Massey highlighted the importance of allowing homeowners to manage trees that pose risks to their properties, particularly those that may cause structural damage. The discussion underscored the necessity of defining what constitutes "reasonable" actions regarding tree maintenance and removal.

The council is currently awaiting the completion of a tree canopy layer from raw LIDAR data, expected this fall, which will provide valuable insights into the city's tree coverage. This data will be crucial for future discussions on urban forestry and tree management policies.

In addition to tree code revisions, the council is also focused on affordability issues within the community. Members discussed the potential for creating a mitigation fund to assist residents facing costs associated with tree maintenance and removal. This fund could help alleviate financial pressures while ensuring that safety concerns are addressed.

Looking ahead, the council plans to recruit a new urban forester, which will further enhance their ability to manage tree-related issues effectively. The new hire will be instrumental in refining the tree code and ensuring that it aligns with the community's needs and safety standards.

As Milwaukie moves forward, the council's commitment to balancing tree preservation with property rights and safety will be pivotal in shaping the city's urban landscape. The upcoming months will be critical as they work to implement these changes and engage with the community on these important issues.