Commission members reviewed Tree City Partners (TCP) planting lists, outreach results and canopy-goal progress and discussed operational needs for watering and procurement.

Members reported that TCP walk-throughs and plant selections are nearly complete, and that the program typically plants about 480 trees a year with roughly 40 removals; city canopy coverage was cited at about 19% with a long-term goal of 40%. "We plant about 480 trees a year and have removed around 40," Zane Meiksel, the city's urban forester, told the group.

Commissioners flagged outreach challenges: a targeted West End postcard campaign produced 11 responses this year compared with about 100 responses last year, prompting a return to postcards and more direct mail for demographics less likely to respond to QR codes.

On operations, Randy reported hose-reel swivel seal failures and parts-order delays that have temporarily reduced watering capacity; commissioners discussed creating a January resolution or blanket purchase order to permit the parks department to obtain specialty parts more quickly. The watering program uses a temporary water bag for newly planted TCP trees; volunteers and crews monitor and refill bags during the growing season.

On beautification, the commission reviewed a student-fabricated archway project for the park and discussion of converting the town square area into an arboretum tied to soil testing and planter repairs. The commission also reported roughly $7,000 remaining in the Arbor Trust, which could be used for the archway steel, additional plantings or other beautification projects this fiscal year.

What’s next: staff will finalize tree orders, pursue parts procurement options for watering equipment, and present budget recommendations for Arbor Trust funds before the end of the year.