Tree Board Meeting 10.21.2022

Detailed briefing

Tree Advisory Board Meeting — October 21, 2022 ATTENDEES: Karen Stroup, Dan Mulder, Tracy Johnson, and student member Jackson Breckenfield. • The board approved the previous meeting’s minutes. It also welcomed Breckenfield as the board’s high school representative. • Members recapped the DTE ReLeaf planting event. They estimated that about 17–18 volunteers participated, along with staff and one student volunteer. The work took roughly 2.5 hours, and members said the new trees generally looked good after subsequent rain and a windstorm. They noted that DPW had planted all trees at the DPW building after a misunderstanding of instructions, but said there was still sufficient work for volunteers at the event. • Follow-up is still needed on the new trees. Members discussed whether one or two crabapples need staking after the wind and said new trees may need winter trunk wrapping or other stem protection. They also discussed reviewing trees near the DPW building soon, because corrective work becomes more difficult after roots establish. Dead crab trees referenced in prior minutes were reported removed and replaced. • The board began planning replacements for pines on M-119, from Bay Bluffs toward the skate park, that are expected to be removed because of conflicts with primary electrical lines. One removal bid had been received and a second was being pursued; the removal matter was expected to go to City Council. Replacement planting is not expected before spring. • No M-119 tree list was adopted. Members discussed a coordinated, diverse planting palette rather than a monoculture, while balancing utility clearance, salt exposure, deer pressure, sidewalk space, visibility, and future maintenance. Black Hills spruce and several deciduous species were discussed, but members agreed to continue evaluating options and visual character before deciding on species, numbers, or locations. • The board postponed broader planning for planting locations and neighborhood tree character while a street-and-sidewalk plan is prepared. It will continue to hold monthly meeting dates but may cancel meetings without enough business. Members also discussed continuing Harbor Light tree-canopy articles, including a possible fall-color article and red maple feature. Worth watching: • Whether the M-119 removal contract advances to City Council after a second bid is obtained. • Whether staff identify staking, winter stem protection, or planting corrections for recently planted trees. • Whether the board narrows its M-119 species palette in time to plan spring replacements. Upcoming: The next regular meeting remains on the schedule but may be canceled if there is insufficient business; M-119 replacement planting is anticipated in spring. Why it matters: The board’s eventual M-119 plan will shape a major entrance corridor while managing safety risks from utility lines and long-term tree survival.

No open public follow-ups are linked to this meeting yet.