City of Camas - File #: REP 17-415

• File #: REP 17-415
• Version: 1
• Name: Status of Urban Tree Program
• Type: Informational Report
• Status: Meeting Item
• File created: 10/31/2017
• In control: CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
• On agenda: 12/4/2017
• Title: Status of the Urban Tree Program Details: The City was awarded a grant from the State of Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to develop an Urban Tree Program. The grant period runs until May 31, 2018, and includes a 50 percent cost share with the City. An initial work plan to develop the Urban Tree Program included: current zoning diagnosis; review of the comprehensive plan to ensure the new codes will be consistent; drafting a tree ordinance, including graphics; updating the Design Standards Manual (street tree species); and creating outreach materials that will increase the public’s knowledge of tree care and the new ordinance. In support of this project, the City recruited a diverse group of citizens to participate on an ad hoc committee and contracted with Davey Resource Group. Also, Davey Resource Group and City staff interviewed key urban forest stakeholders to develop a community survey to better understand public awareness and opinions about trees in Camas. Over...
• Sponsors: Sarah Fox
• Related files: REP 18-143, AI 18-132, REP 18-306, ORD 18-014

Title

Status of the Urban Tree Program 

Details:  The City was awarded a grant from the State of Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to develop an Urban Tree Program. The grant period runs until May 31, 2018, and includes a 50 percent cost share with the City. An initial work plan to develop the Urban Tree Program included: current zoning diagnosis; review of the comprehensive plan to ensure the new codes will be consistent; drafting a tree ordinance, including graphics; updating the Design Standards Manual (street tree species); and creating outreach materials that will increase the public’s knowledge of tree care and the new ordinance. In support of this project, the City recruited a diverse group of citizens to participate on an ad hoc committee and contracted with Davey Resource Group. Also, Davey Resource Group and City staff interviewed key urban forest stakeholders to develop a community survey to better understand public awareness and opinions about trees in Camas. Over 250 community members provided feedback through an online survey that was available March 30, through May 12, 2017. The online survey collected qualitative information about public perception of tree protection, tree species preferences, and about the concept of street tree removal permitting.  A joint meeting of the Planning Commission and the ad hoc committee was held in October to review and discuss draft proposals. Staff provided an overview of the the project's status.

Presenters:  Sarah Fox, Senior Planner and Ian Scott, Davey Resource Group

Recommended Action

Recommended Action: Staff requests direction from the Council regarding the proposed amendments.