Tree Advisory Board Meeting 6.18.2021

Detailed briefing

Tree Advisory Board Meeting — June 18, 2021 ATTENDEES: Anna Mulder, Nancy Rondell, Karen Stroh, Sue Stewart • The board approved its prior meeting minutes. Staff reported that Serena Goldsmith’s term had technically expired with the end of the school year and said the city was seeking a new member following Becky’s resignation. • Members described the Arbor Day planting event as smooth and well attended. They said there were enough people to plant the trees available, volunteers planted at least two trees each, and many seedlings were distributed. The board also noted positive comments about the recent plantings and said gator bags had been installed. • Staff said the Tree City USA application is not currently open and will need to wait until September. Staff described the application as a simple form. • On proposed Layton Park street-tree plantings, the board reviewed letters intended to notify nearby residents that trees would be planted in the public right-of-way. Residents can raise concerns about a particular location, but staff said the process is not intended as a general opt-out. Tree species, timing, and procurement remain open because nursery availability, tree quality, shipping costs, and installation capacity may affect the project. Staff hopes for planting by the end of the year but said spring may be necessary. • The board clarified that it is primarily an advisory body: it can advise staff on tree issues and recommend broader policies, ordinances, plans, and major projects for City Council action. Members requested a clearer look ahead at priorities from the tree plan rather than relying only on projects that arise during the year. • Jeanne Jardine Park’s dying cedar hedge was discussed as a possible replacement project. Staff said rodent issues and ongoing hedge maintenance were factors. Members considered trees and shrubs, including crabapples, viburnums, and lilacs, but made no selection. More information is needed on irrigation, site conditions, current and future park use, screening needs, deer pressure, cost, and maintenance. • Staff reported that Ron Fennick is considering a further tree donation for part of Traverse Street. The board discussed a future donation rubric that would consider the tree plan, diversity, location, donor intent, and long-term maintenance needs. Worth watching: • Whether Layton Park trees can be reserved and installed in fall, or must wait until spring. • A broader discussion of tree inventory, maintenance needs, funding, and staff training. • Development of a donation-review rubric before any new Traverse Street donation proceeds. Upcoming: The next meeting is July 16; members plan to review tree-plan priorities, tree care and maintenance, Jeanne Jardine Park information, and the Right Tree, Right Place resource. Why it matters: The board is linking new tree plantings and donations more closely to long-term maintenance capacity, species diversity, and the city’s tree plan.

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