(a) Property owners wishing to apply for the Tree Removal Reimbursement Program shall submit a written application to the City Manager's Office.. Application shall be distributed and accepted by the City Manager's office and shall contain a written estimate from a reputable contractor.
(b) The City Manager's office shall prioritize the applications for the tree removal reimbursement program using the following criteria:
(1) The size of the tree to be removed
(2) The length of time the applicant has owned the property next to the treelawn where the tree to be removed is located
(3) The degree to which the tree presents a risk of damage or injury to the public.
(4) The ability of the landowner to pay for the tree removal without City assistance.
(5) Applications for residential properties shall have priority over commercial properties.
(c) For the budget for each new year, Council shall appropriate into a designated account funding for the Tree Removal Reimbursement Program. No funds shall be disbursed by the City for the Tree Removal Reimbursement Program except from such designated fund.
(d) The amount to be reimbursed for each property owner shall not exceed two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) for tree removal or fifty dollars ($50.00) for stump removal, or half of the submitted estimate, whichever is less.
(e) In addition, successful applicants shall arrange for a pre-inspection and post-inspection by the Planning, Housing and Zoning Office of the area in which the tree was removed prior to any individual or entity beginning demolition or construction. Said inspections are for the purpose of insuring the removal of said trees and/or stumps are accomplished in accordance with all relevant Conneaut ordinances, regulations and rules.
(f) Once tree/stump removal is completed, a paid invoice must be presented to the Planning and Community Development Department. Upon post-inspection and approval of work performed, the project will be submitted to the Finance Department for reimbursement.
(Ord. 77-21. Passed 8-23-21.)