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Tree‑committee ordinance delayed; planning, traffic and engineering decide plantings, sustainability staff say
Summary
Sustainability staff reported the proposed tree‑committee ordinance did not go to City Council as expected; planning, DPD and traffic engineering determine tree locations, and the committee (once formed by ordinance) will focus on education and maintenance recommendations.
Sustainability staff told the council the proposed tree‑committee ordinance did not appear on the most recent City Council agenda and its timing remains uncertain. The staff member (S5) said the planning division, DPD and traffic engineering jointly decide where trees can be planted and that tree pits and grading constraints—for example at Douglas Grove—can prevent street trees at certain sites.
"That is why Douglasville area was not trees," Clerk (S5) said, explaining engineering and grading concerns. The staff member said once the ordinance is enacted and the tree committee is constituted, the committee's likely tasks will include public education about tree removals and species signage, and advising on maintenance. Members emphasized the need for transparency so residents understand why some trees are removed or not re‑planted.
Council members asked how the urban forest master plan work will be divided among departments and whether the committee will have a role in maintenance policy; Clerk (S5) said those details are still being worked out at leadership levels and that the ordinance language will define responsibilities. The council agreed to monitor the ordinance's progress to the City Council and offered to help with public education measures once roles are clarified.
