Title
Resolution Directing the City Administrator to Develop Recommendations for a Citizen Tree Planting Program
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor adopted the Sustainability Framework on February 19, 2013;
Whereas, The Sustainability Framework outlines priorities for Clean Air and Water and Healthy Ecosystems;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor addressed those priorities in its Urban and Community Forest Management Plan to better care for its urban tree canopy, particularly trees in the public right of way;
Whereas, Each new tree planted has a positive financial impact on the community with respect to lower estimated energy costs ($63.64), higher property values ($57.95), cleaner water ($14.10), healthier air ($11.53), reduced carbon dioxide ($1.39);
Whereas, In order for Ann Arbor residents to plant trees in the public right of way, residents need to contract with an appropriate vendor;
Whereas, Quotes from approved vendors can be over twice the price of residents planting trees on private property, deterring many residents from personally contributing to our priorities; and
Whereas, The Sustainability Framework also prioritizes an Engaged Community;
RESOLVED, That City Council directs the City Administrator to endeavor to develop recommendations for a Citizen Tree Planting Program that might reduce cost to residents planting trees in the public right of way while ensuring potential risks are mitigated.
Sponsored by: Councilmembers Ackerman, Ramlawi, Griswold and Mayor Taylor