Task force hears plan for stronger tree-preservation rules and tree-mitigation fund changes

Town staff said the proposed LMO amendments strengthen tree-preservation standards and add structure to mitigation and replacement requirements. Trey explained the amendments require applicants to make affirmative reasonable efforts to preserve canopy and specimen trees, place specific findings on the record when significant trees are proposed for removal, and expand where mitigation funds may be used (town plantings, canopy restoration, community planting, post-disaster recovery).

On mitigation mechanics, staff said on-site replacement remains the preference but clarified the town may accept payment into a tree replacement fund when on-site mitigation is impractical. The fee methodology would be tied to objective tree characteristics — size, species, installation costs — rather than a flat fee. The amendments also give additional replacement credit for larger trees: "the first 4 inches of trunk diameter is a 1 to 1 credit," Trey said, and additional whole inches increase credit so applicants may use fewer larger trees to meet replacement requirements. To ensure replacements persist, the code introduces a performance guarantee with an inspection about 18 months after installation and allows the town to use the guarantee to replace failed plantings.

Several task force members praised the added clarity and noted this change aims to require tree consideration earlier in site design rather than after plans are finalized. The changes will be part of the package forwarded to the planning commission and council for hearings.