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Energy and Sustainability task force outlines invasive species work, tree-city activities and asks for tools and mature trees funding
Summary
The Energy and Sustainability Task Force described Tree City USA maintenance, a community eradication effort for bush honeysuckle at Lions Lake and a request for funds for tools, more mature trees for Arbor Day plantings and expanded education; members also tied their work to the pending Evergy renewables contract.
Aubrey Binder presented the Energy and Sustainability Task Force report on June 23, highlighting tree-board responsibilities for Tree City USA certification, a community event to remove invasive bush honeysuckle at Lions Lake, and plans to plant more mature trees on Arbor Day.
Binder said the task force absorbed the tree board and maintains Tree City USA requirements, including a tree-care ordinance and a $2 per-capita budget. The task force organized a community service day to clear bush honeysuckle, with collaboration from Parks and Recreation and Citizens for Environmental Action; staff and volunteers demonstrated removal techniques and trained participants.
The task force asked the council to consider funding tools and supplies for future community service days, additional funds for planting more mature (and costlier) trees, and money for continuing professional development so board members can attend forestry conferences. Binder noted the task force had also followed interest in Evergy’s renewable direct contract and anticipated council action on that agreement later in the meeting.
Council members discussed mechanical and biological removal methods, including contracting goat grazing for certain sites, and asked for follow-up on costs and logistics. The task force said the honeysuckle eradication will be an ongoing multi-year effort.
