AgdaPkt 2006-09-25 - Laserfiche WebLink

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of energy efficient activities, such as insulation, wrapping their water heater, and double-paning some of their windows. They suggested possible alternative trees that do not grow as high and cited information that they got in part from other resources, such as the Sierra Club, Horizon Solar System, and a technical book called Carbon Dioxide Reduction for Urban Forestry for consideration. She noted that the book cited Sycamore trees are negative for solar efficiency. They were also concerned about broken sidewalks being a hazard due to large trees, pieces breaking off and the frequency of trimming by the City. Vice Mayor Foust asked PWS Superintendent Mann about the policy from 1961 that talked about what can or cannot be planted and sycamore trees are on the list. Public Works Superintendent Mann cited section Sec. 29.69. of the code: PLANTING OF CERTAIN TREES PROHIBITED: Some types of trees, upon maturing, instead of becoming assets to the community, become liabilities due to structural weaknesses, disease or insect susceptibility, short life, destructive root systems and rank growing branches requiring excessive maintenance. Due to one or more of these characteristics, it shall be unlawful to plant the following trees in or where they may overhang any public street: acacia, black walnut, Arizona Cypress, Asiastic hackberry, Chinese elm, Locust, Polar, Silk oak, Sycamore or European plane, Willow and all species of fruit trees. In response to questions from the Council, Public Works Superintendent Mann stated that the current Tree Task Force will recommend an approved list and he agreed that Sycamores would be on the new approved list. He said that the City does plant Sycamore and there are new varieties that are resistant. M/S Ira/Hartnett to close the public hearing. The motion passed by a unanimous voice vote by those present. Council discussed the conflict in values between people wanting to produce versus having tree-lined streets. The removal of City-owned trees is inconsistent with long-standing policy for tree canopy, City right of way, and the roof line is not high enough to allow canopy. One thing the City can look at is the solar access issue and maybe suggest changes but they cannot grant the appeal based on the type of tree. Planning Manager Ekas confirmed that the current Tree Task force is looking at updating the approved list of trees Vice Mayor Foust stated that she could not vote in favor of the staff recommendation due to the 1998 City policy that prohibits these trees versus the fact that these trees are planted around the City. She encouraged anyone on