Title
Maximum Fine for the Removal of a Heritage Tree or Stand
Body
RECOMMENDED ACTION (Motion):
Staff recommends discussing options of penalties when there is the removal of a Heritage Tree or Stand.
BACKGROUND:
The removal of a Heritage Tree or Stand in violation of the municipal code constitutes a civil infraction that is subject to a maximum fine of $300. The Commission should consider if the $300 maximum fine is appropriate for the removal of a Heritage Tree or Stand in violation of the Heritage Tree code.
The Planning Commission and Natural Resources Committee recommend approval of the revisions to the Heritage Tree Ordinance.
The Planning Commission recommended approval of the proposed revisions on December 14, 2015. At the direction of the City Commission, between June and October 2014, planning staff and the Natural Resources Committee (NRC) drafted amendments to the Heritage Tree Code and brought it before the City Commission on February 3, 2016.
The purpose of this Code is to recognize, foster appreciation and provide for voluntary protection of heritage trees. The proposed revisions provide clearer guidance to staff and applicants regarding this process.
A primary concern for the Planning Commission is the provision of incentives for property owners to voluntarily designate heritage trees. Please see the attached memorandum with recommendations from the Planning Commission regarding this concern.
To date, there have been five Heritage Tree and one Heritage Grove nominations approved by the City Commission. See http://www.orcity.org/planning/heritage-trees-and-groves for details.