Urban Forestry Commission – June 4, 2024

Urban Forestry Commission Meeting Recap – June 4, 2024

The City of Asheville’s Urban Forestry Commission convened on June 4, 2024, with a full attendance including Commissioners Zoe Boyle, Eric Bradford, John Michael Henson, Chris DeFiori, Chardon Dietrich, Karen McNeil, and Chair Patrick Gilbert. City staff present included Urban Forester Keith Aiken, City Arborist Mark Foster, and Planning and Urban Design representative Grania Meiser. The meeting focused on reviewing alternative compliance requests, receiving staff updates, and discussing ongoing initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing Asheville’s urban forest.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing requests for alternative compliance, which allow developers to deviate from standard landscaping requirements under specific circumstances. The Commission unanimously approved two such requests: one for a project at 2398 Andersonville Road, addressing challenges posed by the site's location between DOT-maintained roads and a railroad right-of-way, and another for a project involving three buildings on Southside and Millard Avenues. While approving the requests, Commissioner McNeil suggested exploring a "planting in lieu" option for future projects, where developers could contribute to city tree planting efforts on public land. Concerns were raised regarding the condition of an existing stormwater culvert at 5157 Southside Avenue, prompting a discussion about preventative maintenance and coordination with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).

Staff reports provided valuable insights into ongoing initiatives. Urban Forester Keith Aiken highlighted progress on tree canopy studies and negotiations with property owners, noting consistent funding for urban forestry programs. He also announced the selection of Urban Canopy Works as a consultant to conduct an updated tree canopy inventory and develop recommendations for the city’s urban forest – pending approval from City Council. City Arborist Mark Foster reported on tree crew staffing and ongoing maintenance activities, ensuring the health and safety of Asheville’s trees.

Beyond these specific items, discussions touched on broader topics impacting the city's urban forestry efforts. Councilwoman Kim Roney and Stephanie Monson-Dahl provided updates on the “Missing Middle Housing” proposals, emphasizing that a comprehensive review will be conducted alongside displacement strategies. The Commission also learned about plans for a leadership summit in late July, designed to address common concerns among all city boards and commissions. Finally, Karen McNeil shared an opportunity for the Commission to participate in an educational initiative with the Montford Neighborhood Association, potentially leading to a pilot program for planting in lieu of traditional landscaping. A discussion regarding the process for amending Chapter 2 of city ordinances was initiated, with staff tasked to determine the appropriate steps moving forward.

Looking ahead, several key action items emerged from the meeting. The Commission's "Policy Working Group" will continue discussions regarding a fee-in-lieu program, exploring options for utilizing these funds to support tree planting initiatives. The Commission awaits City Council approval to formally engage Urban Canopy Works as a consultant, and staff will work with the Commission to define the process for amending Chapter 2 of city ordinances. Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment from the Commission to community engagement and equitable urban forestry practices, while also highlighting concerns about infrastructure maintenance and a desire to expand tree planting efforts throughout the city. Residents can expect further updates on these initiatives as they progress, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant urban forest for Asheville.