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Council reviews arborist staffing request as tree calls and storm damage rise
Summary
Parks and forestry staff presented a decision package seeking additional arborist positions, citing an expanding urban canopy, increased storm response and liability exposure. Council members discussed tradeoffs between hiring staff and contracting work.
Parks and forestry staff told the council on Sept. 8 that increased city growth, a larger urban canopy and more frequent storm damage have stretched the department and created a backlog of public‑tree work. Staff recommended adding arborist positions to improve cycle pruning, emergency storm response and tree health inspections.
A staff presenter noted Rochester’s urban forest pruning cycle is…
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