Subject:
Title
Tree Advocacy Committee - Request to Amend Vienna Green Streets Policy (5 min. Staff Presentation)
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DATE(S) OF PRIOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF THIS ISSUE:
March 9, 2026 - Work Session - Tree Advocacy Committee Recommendations to Council
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY: The Tree Advocacy Committee (TAC) presented several recommendations related to the preservation, enhancement, and long-term sustainability of the Town's tree canopy during the March 9, 2026, Council work session. Council expressed general support for many of the recommendations; however, members held differing views regarding the removal of the current street tree opt-out provision available to property owners under the Vienna Green Streets program for trees planted within Town rights-of-way. Council members discussed refining the policy framework, including potential distinctions between existing residents and new development projects, as well as consideration of alternative approaches such as appeals processes and enhanced public outreach. TAC was encouraged to return with more detailed recommendations for Council consideration.
TAC is now requesting Council approval of the following recommendations:
1. Existing Town Residents - Amend the current Vienna Green Streets policy to eliminate the ability of Town residents to decline the planting of one or more Town-purchased street trees within the public right-of-way adjacent to their property when the Town Arborist has determined that street trees are appropriate for the location.
2. New Development - Amend the current Vienna Green Streets policy to eliminate the ability of developers to decline the planting of one or more Town-purchased street trees within the public right-of-way adjacent to a development site when recommended by the Town Arborist. Any street trees recommended by the Town Arborist shall be incorporated into the approved site plan.
Under the current Vienna Green Streets policy, the Town Arborist determines appropriat...
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