Council advances tree-code update tied to $255,000 Morton Arboretum grant

DeKALB, Ill. — The DeKalb City Council on Aug. 11 advanced proposed amendments to Chapter 6 of the municipal code to update tree specifications, care standards and planting guidance after the city received a $255,000 grant from the Morton Arboretum Chicago Region Trees Initiative. Staff said the grant supports canopy improvement activities (removal of dead trees, planting new trees, and associated work) and that the municipal code needs updating to reflect modern standards and to provide clear guidance on planting near utilities and care for newly planted right-of-way trees. The manager told the council the code changes also include recommendations to remove invasive species and specify acceptable tree species under utility lines. Why it matters: The ordinance update implements technical standards that staff and the Environmental Commission expect will help the city meet sustainability goals—staff noted the change is a step toward reattaining Tree City status identified in the city's 2024 sustainability plan. Action: Council voted to move the ordinance to second reading after a favorable roll call (7–0). Council members serving as the liaison to the Environmental Commission said the revised code consolidates expert guidance into a single handbook for public works and private property cases. Discussion vs. decision: The council approved moving the ordinance to second reading and endorsed the code update; no final adoption took place at the Aug. 11 meeting. Next steps: The ordinance will return for second reading and final adoption; staff will continue implementation of the grant work this year.