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DEPUTATIONS BY THE FOLLOWING CONCERNING MOTION 23-G-082, THE PRIVATE TREE BY-LAW AND ECOLOGICAL OFFSETTING REVIEW
The following Deputations were provided concerning motion 23-G-082 regarding the Private Tree By-law and Ecological Offsetting Review:
1. Mark Graves on behalf of the Ontario Commercial Arborist Association spoke in support of the City's proposed Private Tree By-law. He commented on how urban forestry can be a challenging subject for most municipalities. He expressed that the City's proposed By-law is proactive, progressive, and well-written by incorporating terminology related to the maintenance of trees and certified arborists.
Mr. Graves provided comments on the urban tree canopy and agreed that the creation of a Tree Protection Manual would provide guidance in protecting the tree canopy.
Mr. Graves discussed the challenges of protecting existing trees in established neighbourhoods and in lands being used for new developments that result in damage to existing trees and others being cut down to make room for new development. He acknowledged and agreed with the proposed By-law using terms such as maintenance, construction, and development, and the exploration of the best options for tree preservation.
Mr. Graves concluded by noting that including a certified arborist as part of the By-law will assist in keeping costs for tree removal and maintenance more affordable for residents.
2. Matthew Logan on behalf of the International Society of Arboriculture Ontario spoke in support of the City's proposed Private Tree By-law. He provided a background of the organization and highlighted its mandate to enhance, promote tree care and benefit trees through education, research, and awareness. Mr. Logan commented that he echo's the comments made earlier by Mark Graves.
Mr. Logan addressed his concerns related to the amendments introduced by members of Council at the General Committee meeting associated with a certified arborist.
Mr. Logan comm...
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