TO: Planning Board Members
FROM: Cynthia Cannon, AICP, Assistant Planning Director
DATE: 10/6/2020
SUBJECT:
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Proposed LDC Amendments to Section 12.6. Tree/Landscape Regulations
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BACKGROUND:
City staff have proposed amendments to Sec. 12.6 Tree/Landscape Regulations. The proposed amendments address the flowing areas within the ordinance:
• Staff recommends that all tree removal, pruning, and plantings be reviewed and approved by one designated arborist. This provides a more efficient and straightforward process for the public when dealing with the City’s Urban Forest.
• Staff recommends that as a part of the Notice of removal for two-plus heritage trees or ten plus protected trees, that signage be posted two weeks before removal. Additionally, Notice will be given to the appropriate Councilperson in which distract the removal is taking place.
• Staff made changes to provide clarity as to when trees shall be planted.
• Staff revisions take into account the Florida Statute 163.045
• Staff recommends changes to the Tree fund so that it allows for both planting and maintaining trees and may be authorized by City Council to fund an Arborist. Furthermore, staff recommends the grant program be reduced to 50% and $5,500.00 max, also that the City’s designated arborist review grant projects to ensure appropriate measures are taken to ensure the health of the project.