FROM:
Public Works
SUBJECT:
Title
2024 City of Fontana Tree Policy Update
End
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Approve and adopt Resolution No. 2024-135, updating the City’s Tree Policy Manual
End
COUNCIL GOALS:
• Invest in the City’s infrastructure (streets, sewers, parks, etc.) by maintaining and improving the city's existing infrastructure.
• Invest in the City’s infrastructure (streets, sewers, parks, etc.) by improving the aesthetics of the community through code enforcement, street sweeping, and landscape maintenance.
DISCUSSION:
The City of Fontana considers trees to be one of its most valuable assets and is committed to preserving its Urban Forest. To protect the City’s Urban Forest, Fontana adopted its current “Tree Policy Manual,” which governs the management of its urban forest in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 28 of the Fontana Municipal Code.
City staff is recommending a change to the City’s current policy regarding responses to requests for the removal of City trees. The proposed change would allow the requesting party to have a tree removed at their own expense if the initial denial of their removal request is upheld following an appeal to the City Manager. The requesting party would be responsible for all costs, including obtaining a certified arborist’s report, the removal of the tree, and the planting of two new trees at locations designated by the City. The tree removal and new plantings would be carried out by the City’s current tree maintenance contractor, according to their contract rates, plus a 15% administrative fee for staff time.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this update.
MOTION:
Approve staff recommendation