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Council debates enforcement and staffing for tree-ordinance follow-up
Summary
Council discussed how to implement and enforce the recently adopted tree ordinance, including options to compensate an arborist per application, require tracking/checklists in the permitting system, or create a tree-preservation fund to ensure replacement plantings.
Council held an extended discussion about how to administer and enforce the tree ordinance, focusing on follow-up responsibilities after permits are issued.
Members said the construction department is burdened and asked who will confirm replacement plantings and warranty periods. One council member proposed a stipend structure (either $2,500 per year or $25 per application) to pay an expert to inspect and close tree applications; others said that $25 per application would not cover the required follow-up visits. Several council members recommended engaging a local arborist (referred to as Wayne) or a PhD biologist as backup and building an electronic checklist and permit-tracking workflow so applications could be flagged and closed when replacement trees are planted.
Council directed staff to speak with the in-town arborist about whether he can perform inspections and paperwork, and to return with recommendations about staffing, fees and the permit-tracking procedure. The council discussed whether the ordinance should include an escrow or a fee-in-lieu option for tree replacement, and emphasized that the town must document compliance over multi-year timelines.
