Ordinance No. 3172, Temporarily Suspending the City of Whittier Parkway Tree Manual

The proposed Ordinance No. 3172 would suspend Municipal Code Section 12.40.100(D) and the provisions of the Parkway Tree Manual until June 30, 2026. Municipal Code Section 12.40.100(D) and the Parkway Tree Manual contain extensive procedures governing tree inspections, removal, notice, hearing, and appeal requirements. During this period of suspension, City staff would conduct a comprehensive review of the Parkway Tree Manual and Municipal Code Chapter 12.40 for potential revisions as part of a comprehensive update associated with all liability policies. These revisions would be designed to promote efficiency by streamlining the processes related to City trees to better protect the City’s urban forest and preserve public safety. Additionally, during this suspension period, the City Manager would exercise discretion based on the health of the tree and as recommended by the City designated certified arborist in determining whether a tree should be removed in a manner that comports with the purposes of the Parkway Tree Manual. The City would continue the practice of replacing trees that are removed (removed trees would be replanted with a minimum 15-gallon replacement tree).