Creation of Urban Forestry Commission

Council representative, Chris Hilbert, has introduced ordinance 2009-174 to establish a citizen tree commission to be called the Urban Forestry Commission.  The purpose is to improve the City’s urban forestry resources through policy development, advise, education and fundraising.  Key responsibilities include:

• Serve as an advisory body to Council regarding legislation and policies regarding public trees.

• Facilitate the development and passage of a tree maintenance and management plan for City-owned trees.
• Assist with public relations and education programs to increase public understanding of urban forestry issues.
• Conduct fundraising for city tree projects.

Members will be appointed by City Council and the Mayor and will include persons with expertise in areas such as tree care, urban forestry, and landscape design.  Other members may include individuals with business interests and citizens interested in the beautification and well-being of our city.

The City Council will meet on Monday, October 26th at 6 p.m. and the ordinance is scheduled to be on the docket*. Supporters are encouraging residents to call their Council Representative and to wear green at the council meeting in support.

*Date could change.  Confirm with the City Clerk to ensure that it is on the docket.  The number is 646-7955.

Contact information for City Council members can be found at:  http://www.ci.richmond.va.us/citizen/city_gov/council.aspx

Prepared by the Friends of Urban Forestry.  For further information, call Alli at 782-1170 or email allialligood@verizon.net