COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
SUBJECT:
title
Historic tree removal request for a 47.43” live oak tree at 2813 Victory Palm Dr.
body
DEPARTMENT:
Development Services
SUMMARY:
The City’s contract arborist, Zev Cohen and Associates (ZCA) performed a tree removal permit inspection. Upon inspecting the tree, ZCA determined the tree is a historic live oak (Quercus virginiana) and provided a report evaluating the tree’s condition which is attached to this request.
Article V, Section 21-55.05, Historic Trees, of the City of Edgewater Land Development Code states that: “Historic trees shall be removed upon approval of a Tree Removal Permit granted by the City Council”. Historic trees are those listed in Section 21-55.06 that reach 36” in diameter at DBH with the exception of the Laurel Oak.
Per Section 21-55.03(b) of the City of Edgewater Land Development Code (LDC), options for removal are as follows:
1. Determine the tree to be removed is in such a condition that it is hazardous to the surrounding area or structure(s) that no replacement is necessary; or
2. Replacement of trees at a ratio of one inch (1”) to one-inch (1”) diameter replacement tree (e.g. 47.43” = 19 trees @ minimum 2.5” diameter); or
3. Payment to tree fund per Section 21-311 equivalent to the replacement cost of the replacement trees. Per Resolution 2014-R-18, historic tree removal permit costs are $5.00 per square inch ($5.00 x 1,766” = $8,830).
BUDGETED ITEM: ☐ Yes ☒ No ☒ Not Applicable
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☒ Not Applicable
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
For the City Council to consider the need to remove the Historic Live Oak Tree based on the arborist’s report. If it is determined to grant the tree removal permit, City Council provide a mitigation option as provided in Section 21-55.03(b) of the Land Development Code or combination thereof.