I. RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is recommending that the City Council Wave the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 844, a City initiated municipal code amendment amending the Trees and Shrubs Ordinance.
II. BACKGROUND:
In July 2020, the City Council directed Staff to proceed with a municipal code amendment of the Trees and Shrubs Ordinance. This ordinance establishes regulations regarding trees and shrubs. As it is written, it does not make clear who is responsible for maintaining trees in various settings. It is often a point of confusion with many residents.
III. DISCUSSION:
Staff has prepared revisions to the existing ordinance that would establish clear language on who is to maintain which trees within city limits. Much of the revision is dedicated to defining what a “Parking Strip” is and whom is to maintain trees within those areas. Additionally, language was added to clearly define who is responsible for “Street Trees”. In most cases, these revisions will solidify responsibility to the abutting property owner. Except in cases where irrigation systems already exist, for example Elm street where the City maintains a large portion of the trees with irrigation.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
Do not Wave the second reading of Ordinance No. 844.
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
This will have no fiscal impact. |