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Council continues tree-ordinance second reading; manager to form advisory group including a civilian
Summary
Council moved to continue second reading of a proposed amendment to the city tree ordinance to a time certain in November so staff can return with clarified, non-substantive language and an urban-tree advisory group that will include a civilian member.
On second reading the council considered an amendment to Chapter 5.6 (tree regulations) intended to strengthen enforcement and clarify processes for the city tree board. Councilmembers raised repeated concerns about whether the ordinance was ready in its current form and asked for specific language to establish a public advisory process.
City Manager said staff will create an "urban tree" advisory group composed of residents and city personnel and return with specific language for the ordinance. The city attorney advised caution: substantive changes between first and second reading require restarting the ordinance process, while non-substantive clarifications can be handled at second reading or by continuing to a time certain.
After discussion the mover withdrew the motion to approve and the council voted to continue the second reading to a time certain in November so staff could draft a clean document and present the advisory committee language. "I will bring the amendment back," the manager said, and pledged to present updated language in advance so the council can review it.
Why it matters: The ordinance would affect tree permitting, enforcement and public participation. Council members emphasized including a civilian on the advisory body and ensuring public input before the ordinance is finalized.
Next steps: Staff will draft the advisory-committee language and return at the council's continued second reading in November. If the changes are non-substantive the continuation avoids re-noticing; if staff proposes substantive changes the city attorney warned the council may need to restart the reading process.
