pages: CityCouncil/2017-01-03.pdf, 15
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CityCouncil | 2017-01-03 | 15 | Council can address where the matter falls in the list on February 17th; suggested adding other facets, such as undesirable trees, historic tree management, drought management, and tree trimming; stated guidelines are needed. Mayor Spencer noted that she included the existing Municipal Code Section in her referral, which is one paragraph. The Assistant City Manager stated the Public Works website has a Master Tree Plan, which is two volumes that are around 135 pages each; stated guidelines are in place. Vice Mayor Vella stated the Historical Advisory Board addresses removal of historic trees; the Board refers to the Master Plan, which is cumbersome; the Fremont guidelines are direct and easy to follow; expressed concern over the lack of public understanding; stated the HAB takes the decision seriously and rarely approves removal or construction which would damage trees; HAB members have worked with staff on the policies; rather than starting from scratch, existing policies should be compiled and made more user friendly. Councilmember Oddie stated Alamedans love trees and want to protect them; since there are processes and guidelines in place; perhaps rather than there being a Citywide problem, the issue is a neighborhood dispute; the process has not been completed for the neighborhood project; questioned the need for a new process and board; stated there are already 40 issues in the queue, of which 8 are planning issues. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the topic could be raised at the priority setting workshop even if the referral is not approved. The City Manager responded in the affirmative; stated there will be a chance to raise issues at the priority setting workshop. Mayor Spencer stated the referral does not specifically ask for a new board; the referral is not specific to one project, rather it addresses policy; having the Council review the policy and receive community input would be appropriate. Vice Mayor Vella inquired where the Master Plan is available and why it is not referenced in the current ordinance. The Assistant City Manager responded that she does not know why the Plan is not referenced; stated a reference could be added; the Plan is under Key Documents on the Public Works website; a link should be added on the Public Works webpage on trees. Vice Mayor Vella inquired what Councilmember Matarrese would like to accomplish under the referral since he was on the Council when the Plan was adopted. Councilmember Matarrese stated the Plan was adopted seven years ago; there has been a drought during said time; the City probably learned a lot from the drought; Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 15 January 3, 2017 | CityCouncil/2017-01-03.pdf |