Urban Forestry Commission – May 7, 2024

Urban Forestry Commission Meeting Recap – May 7, 2024

The City of Asheville’s Urban Forestry Commission convened on May 7, 2024, to discuss the health and preservation of our city’s trees and green spaces. The meeting welcomed Eric Bradford, interim executive director of Asheville Green Works, as a new member and featured updates on several key initiatives impacting our community. Commissioners present included Zoe Boyle (co-chair), Chardon Dietrich, Karen McNeil, and Chris DeFiori. Patricia Grace was absent due to illness.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on alternative compliance requests, demonstrating a proactive approach to balancing development with tree preservation. The commission unanimously approved an alternative compliance request for 46 Wall Street, allowing the property owner to forgo planting a required street tree due to underground infrastructure. Simultaneously, they approved an alternative compliance request for 740 Merriman Avenue, where the applicant will eradicate Kudzu and replace it with native serviceberry trees. While approving this request, Commissioner McNeil highlighted the importance of exploring planting-in-lieu options for exempted trees, potentially requiring a future ordinance amendment. This discussion underscores the Commission's commitment to ensuring that tree loss due to development is mitigated whenever possible.

Beyond individual compliance requests, the Commission made a crucial decision regarding the "Recommended Species List" for 2024. This list, a vital resource for developers and city staff, was unanimously approved following an update from Urban Forester Keith Agin. The revised list now includes 66 new tree species and a comprehensive invasive species list, providing valuable guidance for selecting trees that thrive in our local environment. Additionally, a presentation from Jay Dundas (Capital Projects Director) detailed the McCormick Field renovation project, highlighting design changes that have minimized impact on surrounding vegetation.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize city policies related to urban forestry. The Policy Working Group is currently reviewing Chapter 20, which governs tree preservation and protection within Asheville. Discussions are underway regarding defining landmark trees, establishing civil penalties for ordinance violations, and the role of the Board of Adjustments in these matters. Separately, the Fee-in-Lieu (FIL) working group is developing draft guidelines for small grants dedicated to tree planting, with a final presentation slated for the July meeting. These initiatives aim to strengthen our city's ability to protect and expand its urban forest.

Community input was limited, with no public comments on the 46 Wall Street request. However, Commissioner McNeil’s emphasis on planting-in-lieu options demonstrates the importance of ongoing dialogue between the Commission and residents regarding urban forestry priorities. Looking ahead, several action items were identified: The Education and Enforcement working group will engage with neighborhood associations to gather community input, while Chris DeFiori will continue exploring options for protecting topsoil during construction projects. Staff will also provide the Planning and Zoning Commission with data on tree preservation versus planting in relation to missing middle housing developments. Finally, the commission will determine leadership for the newly added Urban Forest Master Plan Working Group, signifying a commitment to long-term planning and strategic growth of our city’s urban forest.

This meeting showcased the Urban Forestry Commission's dedication to proactive tree management, policy development, and community engagement. Residents can expect further updates on Chapter 20 revisions, the FIL grant program, and the Urban Forest Master Plan in upcoming meetings.