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Board hears public opposition to mayoral proposal to eliminate appeals for city-initiated tree removals; takes matter under advisement
Summary
Dozens of residents and tree advocates urged the Board of Appeals to oppose filed legislation (file 251211) that would remove the board's appeal jurisdiction over city-initiated tree removals. Commissioners heard sustained public comment and agreed to take the proposal under advisement for further consultation with agencies and stakeholders.
The San Francisco Board of Appeals on Jan. 14 received extensive public comment opposing proposed legislation (file 251211) that would eliminate appeals of city-initiated tree removals to the Board of Appeals.
Commissioners heard from neighborhood residents, urban-forest advocates and community groups who warned that removing appeal rights would erode oversight, especially in neighborhoods with low canopy cover and environmental justice concerns. Speakers cited recent incidents where city departments proceeded with removals despite pending appeals and argued the appeals process has yielded collaboration and preserved trees (examples included Mission Verde and Washington Square Park efforts). Several commenters said in-lieu fees are no substitute for preserving neighborhood canopy.
Commissioners expressed concern about a city agency bypassing the appeals process and noted that the legislation, as presented, applies only to city-initiated removals. The board did not take a formal position that night but voted to take the matter under advisement, solicit further information from involved agencies, and develop a formal recommendation or letter after additional deliberation.
