Committee approves creating tree-and-bench donation program and authorizes Parks & Recreation to adopt procedures

The committee voted May 21 to amend city policy so Parks & Recreation can establish a structured donation program for trees, benches and small park amenities and adopt rules and a fee schedule to manage memorials and sponsorships.

Staff said the current 2007 policy mixes naming of facilities with small donations for benches and trees and that the proposed change would remove low-cost park amenities from the formal naming process and allow Parks & Recreation to administer a standardized sponsorship program. The program would let residents donate for a tree or bench, follow a city template for plaques and signs, and require applicants to meet quality and siting standards set by the urban forester and parks staff.

Staff showed an example program from Peekskill as a model and said the city expects procurement of a high-quality tree and installation, with current per-tree costs around $1,100; staff indicated the city would return with a fee schedule, possibly including a 10-year term after which donors could renew or the city may reassign the location. Parks staff said donated benches and trees would follow a uniform look and be sited where Parks & Recreation determines appropriate, to avoid maintenance or vandalism problems and to ensure placement in usable spaces.

A motion to amend Resolution 200 of 2007 and allow Parks & Recreation to create the program was made, seconded and approved by the committee. Staff said detailed rules, a fee schedule and an application form will be prepared for future administration.