The committee approved emergency ordinance 14‑61 to authorize one‑year requirement contracts (with a one‑year renewal) for urban forestry services under the Community Tree Assistance Program (CTAPS), which provides planting, pruning, removal and related services to support seniors and city divisions. The director said the $50,000–$300,000 contract range was intended to break large city work into smaller awards so local small businesses could gain experience and scale up.

Councilman Bishop offered an amendment adding a Council‑notice provision requiring the director of Parks & Recreation to alert the Clerk of Council when cooperative purchases are made and to include details of such purchases; the amendment passed after members expressed concerns about vendor quality and a desire to watch cooperative contracting. Members debated whether the program covers private property trees on seniors' yards in addition to right‑of‑way trees; the director said she would confirm the coverage and report back before the measure reaches the floor.

Director comments noted earlier problems with very small contracts in the program (quality and specification issues) and the city's intent to upgrade specifications so more qualified small contractors can participate. Councilmembers emphasized outreach to residents so they understand the program name change and participation steps; members also asked OBM and OEO to ensure contract goals and subcontracting plans create opportunities for Cleveland small businesses and MBEs.

Representative quote: "From the resident side, nothing is changing. The real change relates to how council interacts with the program," said the Director of Parks & Recreation (paraphrase of testimony).