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Commission approves first reading of ordinance restricting tree‑bank spending to planting and maintenance
Summary
The City Commission approved first reading of Ordinance 2025‑16 to limit tree‑bank fund expenditures to planting, maintenance and Tree City USA compliance and to prohibit use of tree‑bank monies for equipment purchases; the vote was 3–2 on first reading.
On first reading the commission considered Ordinance 2025‑16, which would amend the code to limit the expenditure of monies collected in the city’s tree bank to planting and maintaining desirable trees on public lands and to meeting Tree City USA standards; the ordinance also prohibits using tree‑bank monies to purchase equipment.
Brian Dunigan, director of administrative services and operations, explained that Tree City USA’s standard three requires annual expenditures per capita on a list of approved functions that include planting, initial care, removal, volunteer hours and related outreach; the presented language would codify allowable uses and clarifications about public‑land and private‑land outreach programs tied to the Arbor Day Foundation’s standards.
A brief public comment was taken and the ordinance advanced on first reading 3–2, with Commissioners Caruso and Diaz voting no. Staff said the item will return for second reading and final adoption with any required modifications.
