[0:00] The Emerald Ash Borer is destroying [0:03] ash trees across the area, and as they die, [0:05] they become brittle, unstable and a serious safety hazard. [0:08] The city of Woodbury has a new program [0:10] to help homeowners cover the upfront costs [0:12] of removing dying ash trees from their yards. [0:15] The city already manages [0:16] trees in public spaces, but we know removing trees on [0:18] private property can be expensive. [0:20] So we created the Private Ash Tree Removal Assessment Program. [0:24] It's a financing option to help homeowners [0:26] pay for the upfront costs of ash tree removal. [0:29] Here's how it works. [0:30] The city pays upfront costs of the removal. [0:32] Then that cost is added [0:33] to your property taxes, just like a road repair project. [0:37] Plus, the bond interest rates set for that year. [0:39] The program runs on a first come, first served basis [0:42] with a yearly budget for the next three years. [0:45] To pre-qualify for the program. [0:46] The tree must be an ash tree [0:48] and the property must be privately owned, [0:50] and the homeowner is the one applying for the program. [0:54] Rental properties, homeowner associations, [0:56] and commercial properties are not eligible [0:58] because the cost is tied to individual property taxes. [1:01] To apply. [1:02] Start by answering two quick pre-approval questions online. [1:05] If you qualify, you'll need [1:06] to submit your contact information [1:08] and two quotes from Certified Arborist [1:10] and a PDF of your 2024 property tax statement. [1:13] You can get this on the Washington [1:15] County Taxpayer website. [1:16] City staff will review your application. [1:18] If approved, you'll receive a conditional approval letter [1:21] and an assessment agreement and waiver document. [1:24] You'll have seven days to sign a notarize the document [1:27] and return it to Public Works. [1:29] Once we get it back and sign it, [1:30] you'll receive an authorization letter to begin tree removal. [1:34] After the work is done, [1:36] send us the final invoice and photos of the removal. [1:39] The city will then pay your contractor [1:40] and the cost will be added [1:41] to your property taxes for repayment. [1:44] To learn more, visit woodbury.gov/AshRemoval.