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Tenafly to update tree ordinance, pursue Tree City USA and expand plantings
Summary
Officials reported 97 trees planted last fall, more than 50 resident requests for right-of-way trees, and a planned repeal-and-replace of the tree ordinance to allow forfeited mitigation funds into the Tree Trust; DPW will seek additional tree inspectors.
The commission heard an update on municipal tree programs and an ordinance change intended to strengthen Tenafly's tree protections and funding mechanisms.
Mark Ippolito said Downes Tree Service planted 97 trees during the recent fall planting season, and the DPW has received more than 50 resident requests for free right-of-way trees to be planted in spring. He also reported that Tenafly meets the criteria to apply for Tree City USA and will apply after the next Arbor Day planting. Council member Julie O'Connor said the council plans to repeal and replace the borough tree ordinance to correct a technical issue with the Tree Trust so that forfeited tree mitigation money (not just donations) may go into the Trust; the draft will be modeled on the NJDEP version and reviewed by Julie and Mark to preserve Tenafly's stronger protections.
The borough administrator, David Faslau, has advised the town needs more tree inspectors. The commission discussed reissuing a part-time RFP for inspector help; Mark has identified potential applicants and will discuss reissuing the RFP with Faslau.
