Tree Commission Agendas/

TREE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES JULY 12, 2021 MEMBERS PRESENT: Gerald Haw, John Helge, Zach Sompels, Angela Rabb, Sam Corem OTHERS PRESENT: Kathie Boyle, Jeff Mikula, City of Manistee Jen Teller A regular meeting of the Manistee Tree Commission was called to order by Chair Helge on Monday, July 12, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. in 1st floor lunchroom at City Hall. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion by Haw. All in favor CITIZEN/PUBLIC COMMENT Jen Teller discussed her tree trim request that was previously denied. Teller updated the commission on the events since her request and denial. The tree is located on city/public property and the City does not have a plan for special requests. The commission should discuss a program as Harbor Springs have regarding tree requests to restore view through trees. Teller handed out their policy. Mikula updated commission on past communication regarding this request. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by Rabb to approve June 14, 2021, minutes with change. Tree planting cost should have stated cost $45.00 to $50.00. All in Favor UNFINISHED BUSINESS Review and update By-Laws - Each member was given four sections to review to will discuss at next meeting. NEW BUSINESS Potential Contract with Arborist – Helge stated that a lot of our trees are stressed and not in good shape. All trees would benefit having an arborist on board that could contact to assist with any questions or concerns. Mikula explained budget process, stated there may be grants available. Need to work on “Request for Proposal” to begin process. Members to send suggestions for RFP to Helge. Results of Tree Removal/Trim Requests – Once tree removal/trim forms are returned to the DPW Boyle will notify citizens of the Tree Commission decision, all requests should be handled within 30 days. Assign New Tree Removal/Trim Requests – Helge handed out five new requests for review. Tree Purchase Program – City will advertise for contractor in August with fall date for tree planting. Need to emphasize to owners the need for watering. If additional trees are available Mikula would plant in where needed in city parks. Sompels observed more trees in the east section of town are needed. Updating Tree Commission City Webpage – Webpage is outdated need to work with City to bring up to date. Members to jot down ideas and send to Boyle. Comments Tree USA – the city has not been awarded certificate in several years. We will be working on achieving that status again. Approximately 40 – 60 city trees are removed annually. Helge requested members study Harbor Springs Vegetation Management Program review to discuss at next meeting. Mikula updated the commission on the process regarding the christmas tree that was removed at City Hall. City Hall has requested removal of other trees. They will fill out a request for commission review. Manistee Tree Commission Ordinance 1026 – Trees. Members to review ordinance for future discussion. Motion by Haw, second by Rabb to adjourn at 6:22 p.m. Next meeting date – August 9, 2021 @ 5:00 p.m. in the 1st floor lunchroom at City Hall. Respectfully submitted, Kathie Boyle Recording Secretary