CHAPTER 10
CITY SHADE TREE COMMISSION

SECTION:

2-10-1: Purpose

2-10-2: Creation And Establishment

2-10-3: Responsibilities

2-10-4: Appeal Procedure

2-10-5: Hearing Procedure

2-10-6: Ruling

2-10-1: PURPOSE:

To recognize the value of trees on public and private properties within the City, and to encourage the citizens of West Des Moines to become involved in the planning, proper planting, and care of public and private trees within the City. (Ord. 1397, 3-20-2000)

2-10-2: CREATION AND ESTABLISHMENT:

   A.   There is hereby created and established a City Shade Tree Commission which shall consist of six (6) members and one City Council representative appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. Representatives chosen by the City Parks and Recreation Department and Public Works Department shall advise this Commission.

   B.   The term of appointment shall be three (3) years from January 1 of the year in which the appointment is made, except that for the purpose of maintaining an appropriate staggering of terms, the Mayor may prescribe a shorter term for any appointment or reappointment. In the event that a vacancy occurs in the membership of the Commission by death, resignation or otherwise prior to the normal expiration of the appointee's term, the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council, shall appoint a person to serve out the remainder of the unexpired term.

   C.   Any member or all members of the Commission may be removed from office at any time by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. No person shall serve on the Commission for more than six (6) years.

   D.   The members of the Commission shall serve without salary, wages or other compensation, provided that they may receive reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred as allowed by the City Council pursuant to such procedures and policies for the reimbursement of expenses as shall be established by the City from time to time. (Ord. 1397, 3-20-2000)

2-10-3: RESPONSIBILITIES:

   A.   It shall be the responsibility of the Commission to study, investigate, counsel, and develop plans and recommendations for the planting, maintenance, care, removal, and replacement of trees and shrubs on City rights of way, alleys, and boulevards or parkways.

   B.   The Commission, when requested by City Council, shall consider, investigate, make findings, report, and propose recommendations on any special matter of questions within the scope of its work.

   C.   The Commission shall establish its own rules and regulations, and shall keep a record of its proceedings. A majority of the Commission members shall be a quorum for the transaction of business. (Ord. 1397, 3-20-2000)