Meeting Summary
The city council held a conference to discuss the Urban Forestry Master Plan, presented by city staff and Davey Resource Group. The plan outlines a 20-year strategy for managing Norman's urban forest, focusing on staffing, maintenance, protection, and sustainable growth. Key recommendations include a significant budget increase for additional forestry staff and equipment.
Financial Matters
Proposed Urban Forestry Budget Increase
Discussion of a proposed budget increase of approximately $1 million, raising the forestry budget from $450,000 to $1.4 million, primarily for additional staffing (a three-person tree crew and a chief) and a grapple truck.
Federal Funding for Urban Forestry
Discussion regarding the reduction of federal funding for urban community forestry programs, emphasizing the need for cities to find alternative local funding sources.
Potential Funding Sources
Ideas discussed for future funding, including identifying cost savings from storm cleanup contracting, potentially dedicating a portion of an increased visitor tax, and aggressive policy on planting street trees in city projects.
Coming Up
Watch For
- Revision of the city's tree ordinance, including a section for historic tree districts.
- Budget development for the proposed forestry staffing increase.
- Discussion on a tree retrofit program for existing parking lots.
- Potential increase to visitor tax for parks funding.
Agenda Summary
Presentation and discussion regarding the urban forestry master plan
A presentation and discussion by city staff from Parks and Recreation and Davey Resource Group on the proposed 20-year Urban Forestry Master Plan for the city.