DeKalb County committee approves $450,000 in change orders to expand countywide tree‑removal contract

The DeKalb County Public Works and Infrastructure Committee approved change orders that add the Public Works Beautification division to existing countywide tree cutting and removal contracts and increase contract funds by up to $450,000.

The change orders (agenda item 2025‑1005) amend contracts used by multiple departments — Public Works Beautification, Roads and Drainage, Department of Watershed Management, Facilities Management, and Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs — and apply to several previously awarded vendors, including KC Tree Experts Incorporated, NEDA Incorporated doing business as Garden of Aden, and 1 2 Tree LLC.

Public Works representative Lemke said the item "is simply to add, Public Works Beautification to that contract. They were not included in the original contract." The approved change orders increase funds to support emergency and as‑needed tree cutting and removal services across the county, staff said. The change orders were approved by voice vote.

Commissioner Terry asked whether a separate senior tree‑cutting program was related to this contract and whether contractors could remove invasive vines such as ivy or kudzu when they encounter them. ‘‘I don't believe there's anything specific in the contract to address that, but I believe that's something that we can address within the confines of the existing contract as a general tree trimming ... and tree health," Lemke replied, adding that staff can direct contractors to handle those issues when they are on site.

The committee did not change contract language during the meeting; staff said the existing contract terms are sufficient to direct contractors to address tree health and invasive vines as part of work orders.