The city's Tree Board approved extending deadlines for Emerald Ash Borer tree removal from the current timeframe to 45 days, with possible extensions for property owners showing proof of intent to remove diseased trees.

City staff reported the proposed code changes, developed with the legal team following previous board discussions, would also expand dead tree removal authority to residential properties. Currently, the city can only address dead trees on commercial or rental properties under Chapter 7 of city code.

"We've received some inquiries from some residents related to dead trees that don't meet what our current code considers a nuisance," staff explained during the meeting. The proposed changes would use the same definition from Chapter 7, which considers any tree with foliage on less than 50% of its structure as dead.

The board also reviewed the successful 2025 tree giveaway, which distributed 191 of 200 available trees. The event, held at the North Fire Station, saw 75% of trees claimed within the first 45 minutes. Staff credited improved online registration and follow-up communications for the high participation rate.

Looking ahead, the board scheduled its annual buckthorn removal event for October 11 at Walton Park and discussed tree species recommendations for 2026, with Commissioner Bender proposing smaller tree varieties to reduce future removal costs for residents.