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9. PUBLIC HEARING <br />A. Recommendations from Tree Policy Task Force — Next Steps <br />Public Works Superintendent Mann explained the background and introduced <br />Task Force members present at the meeting. He further explained the six <br />recommendations recommended for implementation in the short term. <br />Mayor Pierce opened the public hearing. <br />Public Comment: <br />William Warhurst stated that the important element in planning a program is to <br />think about the future. He stated that what was learned is that the trees are not <br />the problem; it is the lack of planning adequately to provide enough space, and <br />planting the appropriate tree in the appropriate position. His concern is that the <br />recommendation does not set forth a Council policy that trees need to be planted <br />with care for the future. <br />M/S Hartnett/Ira to close the public hearing. The motion passed by a <br />unanimous voice vote. <br />Council asked questions and made comments related to the planting strip and <br />appropriate planting space for trees; the true budget costs; allowing for more <br />diversity in the master tree list; concern with planting existing vacant tree sites <br />before updating policies, ordinances and practices; task force formation <br />questions; support for rubber sidewalks; a tree advisory committee rather than <br />urban forestry board be formed; <br />PWS Superintendent Mann responded to all questions from Council. <br />M/S Bain /Foust: <br />(1) By Motion, <br />a. Approve the establishment of a pilot Tree Advisory Board comprised of <br />five appointed members meeting the stated criteria. The appointment <br />will be for a fixed period of eighteen (18) months to meet a stated list of <br />objectives and follow stated operating guidelines. <br />b. Adopt the Master Tree List per Section 29.66 of the Redwood City <br />Municipal Code. <br />c. Designate the Public Works Services Department as the lead City <br />department accountable for the City's Urban Forestry Program. <br />d. Establish a List of "Work Verified Tree Companies" that voluntarily <br />submit to the City the established criteria. Companies that meet the <br />criteria will be included on this list that will be provided for the public. <br />JOINT CITY COUNCIL /REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY <br />MINUTES <br />FEBRUARY 26, 2007 <br />PAGE 5 <br />MINUTE BOOK NO. 61 <br />Page No. 340 <br />