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401 accomplished adjacent to their own homes, and added that such is the practice in most other cities in the State. If the City eliminated the Sidewalk Program, a saving of $26,500 and about 4,000 man hours per year could be realized, and property owners would be responsible on an individual basis for sidewalk repairs as they are in other cities . Discussion followed and Mr. Fales and Director of Public Works Pusich commented regarding practices in other cities with regard to sidewalk repair; the existence of unusual problems in Redwood City as a result of planting of undesirable street trees by early developers; the possibility of making sidewalk repairs required because of street tree damage the responsibility of property owners only after weed street trees have been replaced with desirable and appropriate trees; the probable cost of sidewalk repairs; the fact that property owners can be required to repair their sidewalks; the fact that the burden of sidewalk repairs is most likely to fall on older citizens who live in the areas where older trees cause damage; the cost of about two cents on the tax rate for the Sidewalk Program rather than requiring individuals to accept risk; and the procedures which would be followed in the event the Council wishes to eliminate the Sidewalk Program in favor of the usual procedure in other cities . Mary Glass, stated that at one time she was required to pay J254 for such repairs and believes the responsibility for sidewalk repair required because of street tree dam- age be that of the individual property owner. Citizen, Wellesley Crescent, inquired concerning the City' s possible liability with regard to injuries caused by falls on damaged sidewalk. Mr. Fales explained that liability may occur if the City has been advised of damaged sidewalk and taken no action to see that it is repaired and that such claims are usually filed against the property owner and the City. Gordon Williams (see above) , suggested people can more easily afford the small amount on the tax rate than the cost of sidewalk repair on an individual basis . In response to question, Park and Recreation Director Weeks commented on the street tree study currently under way. Mr. Katshen (see above) , suggested that many people would volunteer to cut down a problem tree to obtain firewood. Staff explained that the trunk and roots must be removed also. Lengthy discussion continued concerning street trees . tow Lou Byrne, 180 Oakdale, advised that one of his reasons for moving to Redwood City was because there were many street trees. -8- Budget Study 5/31/75