Tree Advisory Committee

Tree Advisory Committee — March 20, 2024

This was a regular meeting of Petaluma's Tree Advisory Committee, held at City Hall. Six of seven members were present; Marianne Bertuccelli was absent.

Public Comment

Susan Kirks addressed the committee during general public comment. The minutes do not detail the substance of her remarks.

Approval of Minutes

The committee approved minutes from three prior meetings: January 17, February 7, and February 21, 2024.

Vote: Moved by Ewing, seconded by Racusen. Approved 5–0, with Obaid abstaining.

Arbor Day Ad Hoc Committee Update

Committee Member Darren Racusen reported that planning for the Arbor Day event is progressing. The event is set for April 27, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Organizers are considering food, community activities, public engagement, and outreach to partner organizations and agencies. A finalized plan is expected to be ready by the April meeting, and the Ad Hoc Committee will circulate its ideas to the full committee for feedback beforehand. Chair Formby and Committee Member Obaid offered additional comments.

Street Tree Ad Hoc Committee Update

Chair Howard Formby gave a brief update, noting that work on street tree recommendations is ongoing but there has not been significant progress in the past month. The committee remains open to receiving street tree recommendations as the effort continues. Committee Members Ewing and Obaid commented.

Communication and Outreach Ad Hoc Committee Update

Committee Member Taryn Obaid reported that this subcommittee has been active, focusing on policy, practice, and process related to tree management. The group has reached out to city staff, elected officials, and community organizations. A meeting is scheduled for April 1, 2024, with Heather Hines in the Planning Department. Obaid described a broad scope to the committee's tree focus and characterized outreach efforts as having had "tremendous success," with the hope that this work will help staff finalize the city's tree ordinance.

Obaid also raised a concern about significant tree canopy loss — through destruction and/or pruning — along the Lynch Creek Pathway. She flagged this as a potential indicator of similar problems elsewhere in the city and noted the added sensitivity of such activity occurring during nesting season. Chair Formby commented in response.

Staff Comment

Staff Liaison Chong provided three updates: the City Council recently adopted an Integrative Pest Management Policy; the Arbor Day event will be brought before the Council for an official proclamation; and the ReLeaf program has been busy with numerous tree plantings and community programs.

The meeting adjourned at 4:25 p.m.

Key Takeaways