The Redondo Beach Public Works and Sustainability Commission convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss key initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s environmental sustainability, particularly focusing on increasing the urban tree canopy. The meeting began with a tribute to the late Mayor Bill Brand, who was recognized for his efforts in promoting open public spaces and rewilding initiatives, particularly the transition of the AES power plant area back to its natural state. The commission unanimously supported the idea of naming a park after him, reflecting his legacy in the community.

Public Works Director Andy Wingate led the discussion on strategies to expand the city’s tree canopy, a topic that has gained significant attention from the City Council as part of their strategic plan. Wingate highlighted the importance of trees in urban infrastructure, citing benefits that include environmental sustainability, property value enhancement, and aesthetic improvements. He noted that Redondo Beach currently has over 11,300 city-owned trees, averaging about 10 trees per acre, but emphasized that the city’s canopy coverage stands at only 8.3%, significantly below the ideal range of 15-25%.

The commission reviewed data indicating a concerning drop in tree canopy coverage from 14% in 2018 to 8.3% in 2022, prompting discussions about the need for a comprehensive study to assess the city’s tree inventory and potential for growth. Wingate pointed out that most of the city’s trees are aging, with a significant number nearing the end of their life cycle, which necessitates a focus on planting younger trees to ensure future canopy health.

The meeting also addressed the need for updated policies regarding tree management, including the city’s tree protection ordinance, which currently only covers public trees. The commission discussed the potential for expanding regulations to include private trees, recognizing that private property constitutes about 75% of the land area in Redondo Beach. This would require careful consideration of property rights and community engagement.

As the meeting concluded, the commission sought input on how to present these strategies to the City Council, weighing options for a comprehensive urban forest management plan against quicker, actionable steps to enhance tree planting efforts. The discussion underscored the importance of community involvement and data-driven approaches in shaping the city’s environmental policies moving forward. The commission plans to finalize recommendations for the council in the coming month, aiming to foster a greener and more sustainable Redondo Beach.