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PARCS DECEMBER 8, 2014 2:30 P.M. Committee Members Present: Dr. Fred Ferlic, Derek Dieter, Henry Davis, Tim Scott Citizen Members Present: Vacant Other Council Members Present: Valerie Schey (AB), Dr. David Varner, Oliver Davis, Gavin Ferlic, Karen White Others Present: Joe Shabazz Agenda: 1. Ash Trees 2. Bill 14 -111 Kennedy Park Master Plan Dr. Fred Ferlic, Chair of the PARC Committee called the meeting to order with two items on the agenda. The First item for discussion was the development of a public policy to address the dead ash trees citywide. Many ash trees have fallen victim to the emerald ash borer much like the elm tree scourge in the latter part of the 201h century. Dr. Ferlic stated the city needs to establish both a short and long term policy addressing the removal of these diseased trees. Opening the discussion Dr. Varner, said any policy ought to be based on fair criteria applied city wide. He said a possible source of funds could be the cable vision fees the city receives annually. He also suggested banning the planting of any new trees in tree lawns unless the property owner signs a waiver of personal responsibility absolving the city from any future responsibility for the trees. Explain the scope of the problem, Parks Director Phil St. Clair said there were 700 -800 dead or dying trees in tree lawns citywide that need to come down. The added the city currently cuts nearly 500 trees per year with 100 on city property while billing the rest. Dr. Ferlic asked how much money was needed to address the problem effectively. Phil said $400,000 to $600, 000 up front to either expand park equipment and crews or to begin contracting. Councilmember Tim Scott refuted the efficacy of the tree removal program in Elkhart where the city assumes all responsibility and has been cited as one we should emulate. He said Elkhart's policy may sound good; but was poorly executed and wholly ineffectual. Councilmember Derek Dieter said based upon the calls he has received, he wonders whether the tree problem ought to be a priority at all. Councilmember Gavin Ferlic suggested that based upon existing data only 12.5% of property owners need financial assistance to address removal and perhaps that level of assistance should be income based. Dr. Varner responded saying everyone should be treated the same. He suggested TIF funds as another possible source of funds to address the problem.