pages: PlanningBoard/2009-09-28.pdf, 6
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PlanningBoard | 2009-09-28 | 6 | Mr. Buckley, Alameda resident, submitted and discussed his comments on the Draft Plan as they pertain to tree well diameters for specific tree species, the tree planting matrix, and the tree removal rate. Ms. Cantner, Alameda resident, spoke about the special tree and electrical maintenance district on Bay Street, with its 100-year old palm trees, and noted support for not limiting overall street tree height as this would prohibit tree-lined streets like Bay Street. Ms. Lambden, Alameda resident, outlined the written comments she submitted on the Draft Plan. Ms. Evans, Alameda resident and President of the Alameda County Master Gardeners Association, endorsed an effort to make hiring an arborist a priority in order to ensure that street trees receive appropriate care and guard against improper pruning by contractors. She also questioned why Alameda's own protected tree, the Coast Live Oak, was not included in the tree matrix as it is not only a drought tolerant tree, but also a native to Alameda and could be planted in ways that would minimize disruption to foundations or streetscapes. Ms. Dimisheva, Alameda resident, raised her concerns that the Draft Plan does not provide for maintenance and tree removal procedures on as high a prioritization as tree infill and replanting. She endorsed the public-private partnership concept and noted that "Friends of Alameda's Forest" at Alamedaforest.org was an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of Alameda's trees. President Ezzy Ashcraft closed the public comment period. Staff discussed the tree species matrix selection and the typical sidewalk and planter strip issues and problems that are encountered. Staff also stated the tree removal cap of 10% is a maximum and that the City's budget is presently not sufficient enough to allow this level of tree removal. Board member Cook asked for a clarification on tree planting recommendations. Staff provided clarification on the Draft Plan's concepts and soil conditions in Alameda. Board Member Kohlstrand commented on planting strip restrictions in relation to driveways, signs, and intersections and asked for more discussion to address community concerns. President Ezzy Ashcraft asked that the tree selection, based on height, be modified to account for high-voltage and secondary utility lines, as was recommended by Mr. Buckley in the letter he submitted. Board members Cook, Kohlstrand, and Cunningham asked that staff continue to be receptive of comments from the community and that the Board, continue to flush out community concerns and address them in the document. Planning Board comments should be submitted to staff no later than October 5, 2009. Board Member Kohlstrand raised a concern with the ratio of tree removal to replacement planting. She recommended maintaining the status quo of the tree canopy. She urged that Page 6 of 8 | PlanningBoard/2009-09-28.pdf |