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Committee backs $25,000 DNR urban forestry grant to remove ash trees, plant replacements
Summary
The Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee voted to recommend Council approval of budget resolution 072025 to accept a $25,000 Wisconsin DNR Urban Forestry Grant for ash tree removal and a tree replacement program; the Board of Public Works previously approved a $21,700 planting contract with Legacy Tree.
The Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee on April 1 voted to recommend Common Council approval of budget resolution 072025 to accept a $25,000 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources urban forestry grant for ash tree removal and tree replacement.
Justin Kaspersen, Parks and Recreation, told the committee the grant “is to support tree planting initiatives” and will fund ash tree removals and replacements aimed at reducing the impact of the emerald ash borer. He said the city removed 75 ash trees this past winter and that, “so far since 02/2019, we’ve removed 742 trees and planted 581.”
Kaspersen said the Board of Public Works on March 17 approved a bid from Legacy Tree for $21,700 to plant 62 trees along South Central Avenue, West Adler Road and East Veterans Parkway, and that residents will receive door hangers with information about urban forestry and tree care. He recommended the committee approve sending the budget resolution to the Common Council.
Committee member Reigel asked for a clarification about whether the $25,000 increase to the Public Safety Fund operating supplies account came from a grant; Kaspersen confirmed it was a DNR grant and that the budget amendment increases both the expense account and the state grants revenue account by $25,000.
A motion to approve the recommendation passed unanimously; those voting in favor said “aye” and no members recorded opposition.
The packet for the committee included the DNR award notice, the prior fall resolution referenced by staff (resolution 204-42), and the planting contract approved by the Board of Public Works. The committee’s approval moves the budget amendment forward to the Common Council for final action.
The committee discussion focused on plantings, public outreach and timeline; staff said a citywide news release and social media posts will raise awareness about the emerald ash borer and about proper tree care.
