If an individual tree, or group of trees, as provided for in this ordinance, is deemed by the Shade Tree Commission to have significant cultural, historical, and/or environmental value, and said Commission is requested by any person to investigate the preservation of any tree, or group of trees, the Shade Tree Commission shall provide a forum for discussion of said tree's (or trees') preservation and for negotiation between interested parties.
The City shall use best management practices for tree preservation in the design, construction, and maintenance of public improvements, which shall be reviewed by the Arborist.
Whenever it is necessary to remove a tree(s) or shrub(s) from a tree lawn or public property, as defined, the City shall remove and replant such trees or shrubs or replace them if public property is available. The City reserves the right to recover the cost of said tree replacement from the individual or entity that causes the damage to the tree necessitating its replacement.
No person, firm, or corporation shall remove a tree(s) or shrub(s) from public property, as defined, for any purpose or reason without first requesting and obtaining written approval from the Arborist or his/her designee. Any tree(s) or shrub(s) approved to be removed by the Arborist shall be replaced with approved tree(s) or shrub(s). Such replacement shall meet the standards of number, size, species, and placement as provided for in a written approval issued by the Arborist or his/her designee. The person, firm, or corporation shall bear the cost of the removal and replacement of all trees or shrubs removed. Failure to plant replacements according to City standards shall result in replacement performed by the City or its agents. The City shall invoice the person responsible for replacement at the actual cost of the work. If said person, firm, or corporation does not make payment, the Service Director shall take such measures deemed necessary to collect for the actual cost of the work including, but limited to, provisions of section 169.98 of this ordinance. (Ord. 2007-94. Passed 9-19-07.)