Council approves increased fee for new public street trees; $397 charged to property owners for planted trees

The Common Council approved the spring 2025 public street tree-planting program and authorized a $397 one-time assessment for newly planted trees in certain new-development areas.

Aaron, presenting for Parks, Recreation and Forestry, explained that the fee was raised to align with program costs after the Parks, Rec and Forestry Board recommended an increase. Staff said the program will plant about 200 trees citywide this season; 47 trees are chargeable assessments tied to new developments (Howell Oaks and Fox Lakes neighborhoods and the Magnolia Drive replacement program). Because of existing contract and species needs the planting list includes about 40 ironwoods to diversify the urban canopy and reduce species monoculture.

Staff noted the total number of new plantings is lower than prior years because of staffing shortages in the forestry crew: four open positions (three full-time and one part-time) out of a full complement. Staff said they had accepted one position recently and could expand the program if vacancies are filled. The assessment is a one-time charge to property owners when a tree is planted in front of a property that previously had no street tree; subsequent maintenance and replacement are performed by the city without additional charge.

Alderson Piper moved to approve the program and assessment; Alderson Wietesca seconded. The council vote to approve the tree-planting assessment passed 12–1. During discussion a resident asked who is responsible for the $397 charge; staff confirmed the property owner is assessed for newly planted trees in new-development areas or for property addresses that have not previously had a street tree planted.

Provenance: the Parks, Recreation and Forestry presentation and council action on the planting program are recorded in the meeting transcript.