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<br />WS – Item 4 <br />WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT <br />Work Session Item No. 4 <br /> <br /> <br />Date: February 6th, 2023 <br /> <br />To: City Council <br /> <br />From: Andy Nelson, Environmental Coordinator <br /> <br />Re: Boulevard Tree Policy <br /> <br /> <br />Background <br /> <br />The boulevard tree program was initiated in 1991 through establishment of Chapter 1008 <br />of the City Code. Requirements are also included in the Landscaping Section of the <br />Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 1007.043 (17) Screening, Landscaping, Buffer Yards, and <br />Tree Preservation). <br /> <br />The boulevard tree program wa s established in acknowledgement of the many benefits <br />that trees provide to the community. These benefits include reducing energy costs by <br />providing shade, improving stormwater management by minimizing erosion and <br />flooding, increasing property values, improving aesthetics of neighborhoods, helping to <br />mitigate traffic noise, contributing to the general well-being and mental health of the <br />community, and providing habitat for animals. <br /> <br />Boulevard trees are required in all new residential subdivisions at a rate of one tree per lot <br />frontage for single family and two family lots. Townhome and multi-family properties <br />shall provide boulevard trees at a rate of one tree per 70 linear feet of street frontage <br />where property fronts any public street. Funding for these trees is collected from <br />developers as part of development agreements. The City then coordinates the tree <br />plantings. <br /> <br />After planting, city crews will prune the trees for clearance, structural integrity, overall <br />tree health, and improved aesthetics. If a tree dies, the City will remove the tree, grind <br />the stump, and restore the area with turf grass seed. <br /> <br />The City’s rights regarding management of trees in the rights-of-way are described in <br />Section 1008 of the City Code. <br /> <br />Discussion <br /> <br />Staff is request ing City Council decisions on the following questions. <br /> <br />Question 1: Should the City continue requiring boulevard tree planting? <br /> Considerations: