Tree Commission Agendas/

TREE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Sagala, Bob Johnson, Cookie Friedrich, Sue Verheek, Pat Williams, Janice Waterman MEMBERS ABSENT : Bob Bernatche OTHERS PRESENT: Jeff Mikula, Kathie Boyle – City of Manistee Dale & Jen Teller Chair Pat Sagala called meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. GUESTS Mr. & Mrs. Dale Teller of Harbor Drive were in attendance to discuss a tree issue. The tree is located west of Douglas Park tennis courts, the Tellers are requesting the tree be trimmed. The Tellers believe the tree to be a special situation and is a safety issue. Several commission members have viewed the tree and are in agreement tree should be minimally trimmed back. Williams requested Jim Scarlatta inspect the tree and do professional trimming, after discussion members decided the DPW will trim the low hanging branches only. We do not want to set precedence. OLD BUSINESS Chalk Art Contest went very well we had 100 children participate. Members agree date of contest was a good choice. NEW BUSINESS Tree Removal – Bob Johnson & Bob Bernatche inspected over 20 trees generated from the list citizens filled out for tree removal/trimming. Mikula stated the DPW works on trees during down time in the winter months, also the City sidewalk plow driver has requested over 10 different areas where trees need to be trimmed to allow the equipment to go down these streets without damage. Tree Planting – City has budgeted $20,000 for tree planting. Trees will be offered next spring to residents at a cost of $40.00 per tree that will include a watering bag. COMMENTS Commission requests that the City look at shrubs/bushes encroaching on intersections – this is becoming a safety issue. Members will generate list and submit to Mikula. Trees in front of City Hall need to be shaped – Williams recommends trees be professionally cut. Mikula updated the commission on the various jobs the DPW has completed including cutting/pruning bushes back in alleys. There being no further business, Motion by Williams, second by B. Johnson to adjourn. All in favor. Respectfully submitted, Kathie Boyle Recording Secretary