Woodbury launches ash tree removal financing program
The City of Woodbury announced a new financing program to help homeowners cover upfront costs of removing ash trees damaged by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer.
The Private Ash Tree Removal Assessment Program allows the city to pay contractors directly for tree removal, with costs added to homeowners' property taxes over time at bond interest rates. The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis with funding allocated over three years.
"The Emerald Ash Borer is destroying ash trees across the area, and as they die, they become brittle, unstable and a serious safety hazard," according to the city's announcement. While Woodbury manages trees in public spaces, officials recognized that private property tree removal can be expensive for residents.
To qualify, properties must be privately owned with ash trees, and homeowners must apply directly. Rental properties, homeowner associations and commercial properties are not eligible because costs are tied to individual property taxes. Applicants must submit two quotes from certified arborists and their 2024 property tax statement.
Approved applicants have seven days to sign and notarize assessment agreements before receiving authorization to begin removal. After work completion, homeowners submit final invoices and removal photos, and the city pays contractors directly. More information is available at woodbury.gov/AshRemoval.
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Notable Quotes (4)
The Emerald Ash Borer is destroying ash trees across the area, and as they die, they become brittle, unstable and a serious safety hazard.
So we created the Private Ash Tree Removal Assessment Program. It's a financing option to help homeowners pay for the upfront costs of ash tree removal.
The city pays upfront costs of the removal. Then that cost is added to your property taxes, just like a road repair project. Plus, the bond interest rates set for that year.
Rental properties, homeowner associations, and commercial properties are not eligible because the cost is tied to individual property taxes.
Ordinances & Resolutions (5)
City program providing a financing option for ash tree removal on private properties.
A required document for program application, available from the Washington County Taxpayer website.
Document received by applicants upon initial approval for the program.
Document requiring a homeowner's signature and notarization to proceed with the program.
Document issued by the city allowing homeowners to begin tree removal work after all agreements are signed.
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Other Topics from This Document
Emerald Ash Borer and Private Ash Tree Removal Assessment Program
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