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Finance committee advances changes to street-tree protections, sponsors seek clearer enforcement language
Summary
The Finance Committee moved to recommend an ordinance changing Madison’s street-tree protections and creating a street tree replacement fund. Developers and tree advocates urged clearer language about property-line limits and the process for suspending right-of-way permits; sponsors said substitutes are expected before full council.
The Finance Committee on Aug. 25 advanced a proposed amendment to the Madison General Ordinances that would strengthen protections for street trees and create a city street tree replacement fund, while sponsors and city staff said clarifying language and a substitute ordinance are expected before the measure reaches the Common Council.
The item (Legistar 89254) was moved and seconded for adoption in committee. After discussion the committee recorded a favorable committee recommendation, with Alder Figueroa Cole voting no.
Committee members and public registrants emphasized two recurring concerns: (1) the ordinance’s geographic reach — whether the tree-protection zone could extend onto private property — and (2) the process for enforcement actions such as suspending or revoking right-of-way permits. Robert Proctor of District 4, representing the Realtors Association of South Central Wisconsin, said protecting street trees is universally supported but urged clearer, practical…
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