West Linn council reviews technical updates to community tree code; staff to seek public comment

City staff and the consulting arborist presented a package of technical updates to West Linn’s Community Tree Ordinance and Tree Manual at the May 5 council work session, and council directed staff to publish the proposed amendments for public comment and return with adoption language following that outreach.

Planning and urban forestry staff said the proposed updates are framed as technical changes rather than broad policy shifts. Megan (staff) and consulting arborist Todd Prager told council the revisions are intended to bring the ordinance in line with current state law, industry standards and implementation realities, reduce ambiguity in decision criteria, and improve administrative efficiency.

Key technical changes summarized by staff and the consultant include:

- Updated, clearer definitions and alignment to contemporary arboricultural practice (consultant said the manual follows ISA standards). -…