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The letter that went out mentioned various components but did not mention homeowners' rights which is not representative of one of the most contentious issues. Some of the original suggestions submitted were either edited or never included from the original forum. She further stated that No. 13 lacks credibility due to censorship and that the failed recommendation to reinstate code enforcement of the tree ordinance will not enforce the current ordinance. Derby Davidson confirmed that one of the first items voted on was to agree that eonsensus needed to consist of at least an 80% affirmative vote. Each of the 24 items received an 80% vote of approval. Ralph Nobles supported the plan to create a citizens appeals board. He stated that his reason is that he has had a personal problem Theodore Cedar 50 year-old has two sucker branches that interferes with its beauty. He stated that he obtained a professional assessment that confirmed pruning of the tree is appropriate but that he was denied a permit to do so. Susan Swope commended the Council's forethought in commissioning the Task Foree and stated that the urban forest is in need of attention. She congratulated the Task Force for an excellent job overall, stating that she particularly likes the vision; adoption of the idea of a landmark rather than a heritage tree; and development of an education program. Over the last 20 years at the Parks and Recreation Commission level, an appeal is most often due to the wrong tree being planted in the wrong place. She agreed that the impact of the property owner should be considered in decisions for tree removal permits, and that approving and developing an urban master plan is excellent. She stated concern with item #7.C due to instances where it may not be advisable to replace a tree, and #8 stating that street trees should be of the low maintenance varieties. She submitted written comments dated December 4, 2006 for the record. Keith Bautista, Redwood City resident, asked what the homeowner's responsibility is with respect to the sidewalk hazards created by the trees planted within the City's right-of-way. If the homeowner is responsible then we are all in jeopardy with the raised sidewalks caused by the tree roots. He stated that he utilized the accelerated program where the homeowner requests repair of the sidewalk and pays 50% and 5 years later the sidewalk has raised again despite the root barrier placement. Nita Spangler, a member of the Task Force, stated that she agrees with Chris, she agrees with the man who wants to repair the sidewalks and go easy on the owners. She stated it was interesting experience and she learned a lot. She stated that there were grasslands from the hills to the bay as the City began planting trees in the early 1860's and she gave some of the history at that time in the area, pointing out that we have lost many of the trees. Although trees enhance the landscape they are very expensive and she has been through the appeal process. JOINT CITY COUNCIUREDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING MINUTES DECEMBER 4, 2006 PAGE 7