Forestation Board Meeting
Prospect Forestation Board Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2023, 2:00 pm via WebEx
Present: Lee Tucci, Linda Knox, Sylvia Quaye, Herb Shulhafer, Andrea Hanlon, Mayor Farnsley, Ron Cundiff, Don Gibson
Minutes from the October meeting were approved as written.
The Mayor reported that the Veteran’s Day event went well. He also went on to say that Council is working with Chase on their proposal for a new branch on Timber Ridge (Kroger parking lot). The project will be addressed in 2 phases: the building and later the landscape plan that calls for removal of multiple trees and some replanting with very small scale trees (1.5 in.) Forestation would like to see an updated tree plan after Council meetings with Chase.
He noted that the revised Nuisance Ordinance will be presented for first reading at the November Council meeting. He acknowledged the ongoing work on the Forestation Ordinance and that there are two different approaches that merit further discussion.
Andrea said all of the new tree planting sites have been marked, and Perez and Cortez will be calling BUD. A late November dig and planting is anticipated.
She expressed concern that the newer trees were not mulched this year and asked if this was a Greenscapes responsibility or if arrangements to have them mulched by Perez and Cortez could be made. She also suggested addition watering for the new trees due to the dry periods this year. The board voted to authorize watering.
There are several memorial trees planned for the fall planting. The location for the Wardell tree will be evaluated and most likely be planted in the spring. She said that some of the newer Greenscapes trees are not doing well, and 2 new trees were suggested near Little Hunting Creek Park parking lot and powerline area and another near the pavilion.
The board also voted to authorize dead tree removal on the Bridgepointe exit as the potential risk to the Overlook.
This year’s Arborfest went well. With the few trees left going to City Parks. Future improvements included being sure adequate tree guards were available and looking at options for more/better signage along 42.
The dead pine off Gunston Lane has been confirmed as not being on public property. Ownership is still to be determined.
The updates to the Forestation ordinance have been questioned in terms of definitions and what should be in ordinance vs. another reference document available to residents.
Lee said we were working on data for our next Tree City USA certification. Various activities must be documented including per capita spending, plantings, removals, activities and volunteer hours. We may also look at submitting for another Growth Award based on the new Canopy Program. The City currently has 6 growth awards.
The next meeting will be December 14 at 2 pm via webex.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Knox