Maquoketa Tree Board narrows planting plan for IRA grant, delays final removal decisions to June meeting

The Maquoketa Tree Board discussed potential sites and maintenance plans for an IRA Tree Planting Grant at its May 18 meeting, and directed a member to compile a revised removal list for re-bid.

Board members said centralized planting sites — potentially at local schools — would simplify watering and care of newly planted trees. Maintenance also recommended selecting larger trees and suggested partnering with private property owners and school groups to share watering responsibilities. The board discussed reducing the planting target from about 120 to a more manageable figure, with “maybe 75” mentioned as an option.

Elaine Edwards, Tree Board member, confirmed that the board reviewed the budget and that no changes were made at this meeting. Edwards also said she will compile the amended 2026 tree and stump removal list and email it to the board; that list will be re-bid. A phone-in participant identified as Trish recommended setting a December 15 target to finalize how many trees the board wants removed. The board asked that removals be rated and ready for discussion at the June 8 meeting.

The board discussed timing for procurement and work, noting the hope that bids will be returned in time to schedule removals between July and December. The meeting record does not include formal vote tallies for the procedural approvals or any formal motion adopting a specific planting target; several items were recorded as directions for follow-up rather than final decisions.

The board approved the meeting agenda and the March meeting minutes on motions involving Elaine Edwards and Ashley River; the meeting was later adjourned on a motion by the same members. The board will revisit the compiled removal list at its next meeting on June 8, when members expect to review rated removals and next steps for contracting.