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Public Works wins $250,000 grant to remove invasive species and plant trees
Summary
Public Works reported a $250,000 grant to remove invasive species (including bamboo) in multiple park areas and to replant trees; half the funds will be for removal and half for tree replanting and backfill.
Public Works Director William Barklay told the council the department secured a $250,000 grant to identify and remove invasive species across several park areas and to restore canopy by planting trees.
Barklay said the grant targets seven areas across the city — including Westfield, Becketfield and city hall locations — and intends to split funding roughly 50/50 for removal and tree planting: "The grant was for 250,000. Uh half of it was for the removal of invasive species. the other half is for tree planting ... to backfill what we're taking out of those areas." He called recent removal work behind City Hall and along the vital course bank an example of the program’s early progress.
Council members thanked the public‑works crew and noted the work improves park safety and recreation areas. The department also noted staffing vacancies that constrain operations and requested authorization to fill two open positions to sustain the program.
Council did not take formal action at the workshop but praised the grant and asked staff to keep the council informed of implementation timelines and any required matching funds.
