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Residents back new tree advisory board as council considers amending tree ordinance
Summary
The council held a public hearing on amending the tree preservation code to create a three-member tree advisory committee; Conservation Advisory Council members and residents urged the board's creation and recommended consulting a certified arborist.
The Peekskill Common Council took public testimony on a proposed amendment to Chapter 5-30 (Tree Preservation) that would add a three-member tree advisory committee to oversee a citywide tree inventory and canopy strategy.
Planning staff said the amendment grew out of Conservation Advisory Council (CAC) recommendations and a consultant-led tree inventory funded by a grant. ‘‘A coordinated effort, including a tree board outlined in the amendment, can support the city in monitoring and hopefully expanding the tree canopy,’’ CAC member Deborah Bliss told the council at the public hearing.
Multiple residents urged the council to ensure professional expertise, asking that a certified arborist be consulted or included on the board. Commenters cited canopy loss at neighborhood parks and called for a board that can recommend planting and maintenance priorities. The council closed public testimony on the item after hearing support and concern and will act on the amendment in its legislative process.
