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Commission introduces changes to tree ordinance; plans tree‑voucher program and smaller advisory board
Summary
The commission introduced an ordinance to amend the city tree ordinance (Chapter 118): reduce the Tree Advisory Board from nine members to five, designate parks staff as primary board support, create a tree voucher program to promote canopy trees, and delegate fire prevention the authority to abate vegetation intruding on public right‑of‑way.
Paducah commissioners on April 21 introduced a proposed amendment to Chapter 118 (Vegetation) of the City Code to update the tree ordinance and reorganize the Tree Advisory Board.
Staff said the amendment removes the parks director, city engineer, planning director and public works director as voting members, reducing the board from nine members to five, and names the parks director or a designee as the primary staff support for the board. The change is intended to streamline citizen inquiries by directing tree‑related intake to the parks department.
The ordinance language directs the Tree Advisory Board and parks staff to develop a tree voucher program focused on canopy tree planting and replacement. Staff described the voucher program as targeting replacement and canopy trees to grow the city’s tree canopy over time. The amendment requires the board to provide an annual report to the city commission on activities and goals.
The proposal also codifies that the fire prevention division may site and abate vegetation on private property that projects onto public ground, consistent with existing abatement practices.
Jonathan Perkins, identified in the meeting as the Tree Advisory Board chair, had been consulted on the proposed changes and provided feedback; staff said further tweaks may occur before second reading. The ordinance was introduced and will return for subsequent readings and refinement.
