6.1. SR 06-10-2002Item # 6.1.
TO:
FROM
SUBJECT:
Date:
Elk River City Council
Louise Kuester, Council Representative - Ward 2
Update on Tree Committee
June 4, 02
As the Council representative on the "Tree Committee", I would like to share some of my
concerns about the Committee's progress. During the past 18 months the Committee has
explored many approaches to increasing City involvement/regulation in preserving and
promoting the presence of trees in Elk River. There seems to be no single, clear
recommendation to adopt. In addition, every option impacts staff work assignments,
budgeting or both.
To effectively represent the Council regarding our intentions, I need a clearer
understanding of your thoughts regarding the Committee's assignment. This information
will help the Committee to establish priorities and/or have closure on the assignment.
Following is a general summary of the alternatives we've considered so far.
Developing an ordinance regarding tree preservation. This could apply to all
developers or landowners, or land owners of specified acreage, or any mix of
groups. Regardless of the specific group (s) included, more staff time and training
would be needed for enforcement. The issue of penalties for non-compliance also
presents challenges. Timing of the cutting of large numbers of trees was also
mentioned as an area difficult to regulate.
Adopting an ordinance for maintenance of trees on City property. As the
City develops, it's ownership of property, responsibility for planning for and
maintaining these properties grows, too. Software is available that outlines
possible city policy in this area.
Working with other agencies such as the county to develop a program of tree
education and promotion. This would build on the City's existing reforestation
project and encourage "tree health" (i.e. addressing oak wilt). With no promotion
and little advertising, Tim Edgerton gets 100-120 calls a year from Elk River
residents with tree questions.
Including tree preservation as a consideration in re-evaluating the present
zoning and land use. For example, a matching of significant tree areas on hilly
terrain with current zoning allows us to consider the impact of density on specific
areas of land.
Regardless of the sequence or priorities the Council recommends, an important starting
point, according to Tim Edgerton, is a survey of existing trees. If the target area is City
property, the survey would help in developing a maintenance schedule and in budgeting.
Tim also explained that forestry work can be done in house, or contracted, and that some
projects may be seasonal and handled by University of Minnesota students. Regardless
of our approach, it is important for a city of our size, rapid growth and development, and
oak wilt to adopt some policies regarding trees. Tim also mentioned that a cost-sharing
program called Minnesota Relief has recently been re-established. Its main purpose is
dealing with oak wilt.
Although I will be out of town until Monday noon, I look forward to hearing your
thoughts on our challenge. Tim Edgerton has also indicated a willingness to be a
resource for the Council, either through phone calls or his attendance at a Council
Meeting.