Tree City USA Application for Re-Certification Copyrighted
December 21, 2020
City of Dubuque Consent Items # 11.
City Council Meeting
ITEM TITLE: Tree City USAApplication for Re-Certification
SUM MARY: City Manager recommending approval to submit an annual application for
Dubuque to become recertified as a Tree City USA.
SUGGESTED Suggested Disposition: Receive and File;Approve
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Tree City USA Application-MVM Memo City Manager Memo
Staff Memo Staff Memo
Tree City USA Application 2020 Supporting Documentation
Dubuque
THE CITY OF �
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TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Tree City USA Application Approval Request
DATE: December 13, 2020
Leisure Services Manager Marie Ware requests City Council approval to submit an
application for Dubuque to become recertified as a Tree City USA. The Park and
Recreation Commission unanimously recommended approval at their December 8,
2020 meeting. Dubuque received the 2017 Tree City USA award and has received the
recognition every year since then
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
v
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Marie L. Ware, Leisure Services Manager
Dubuque
THE CITY OF �
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TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Marie L. Ware, Leisure Services Manager
SUBJECT: Tree City USA Application Approval Request
DATE: December 11, 2020
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memo is to request approval to submit an application for Dubuque
to become recertified as a Tree City USA.
BACKGROUND
In 2017 Dubuque Trees Forever requested the city consider applying to become a Tree
City USA. Leisure Services staff researched the information to complete that
application and with City Council approval, applied and received the 2017 Tree City
USA award and have applied and received the recognition every year since then.
DISCUSSION
Staff completed the attached application for Dubuque to recertify as a Tree City USA.
The Park and Recreation Commission unanimously recommended approval to the City
Council at their December 8, 2020 meeting.
ACTION REQUESTED
I respectfully request City Council approval for the Mayor to sign the attached Tree City
USA designation application for Dubuque.
cc: Laura Roussell, Dubuque Trees Forever President
Steve Fehsal, Park Division Manager
attachment
12I11I2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Application Portal
� rev i ew r PARKDIVISIONMANA...
MY APPLICATION REQUESTSUPPORT MYEVENTS
PLAN NAME
Dub�
ID
TREE CITY USA ��;
An Arbor Oay Faundallon Pmgram
CREF
12/Z
IN PROGRE55
LAST urvi+icv
INSTRUCTIONS
1 2/11/2020 1 2:21 PM CST
APPLICATION
QUESTIOfUS/COMMENTS� EVALUATIONS �
MY EVENTS
SUBMISSION
FORM
MAYC�R OR EQUIVALENT lNFORiV1A�I�N
MAYOR NAME
Roy Buol
PROFESSIONAL TITLE
Mayor of Dubuque
MAYORS ADDRESS
50 West 13th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 United States
EMAIL ADDRESS
cityderk@cityofd u buque.org
PHONENUMBER
+1 (563)589-4100
�1T`�' ���E�TRY CaNTACT
https://applications.arborday,orglsllsubmissionlportal?subid=328728&evtid=148890 tl7 I�
12111/2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Application Portal
(This is the person we will be reaching out to if we have any
questions about the application.)
�
CITY FORESTRY CONTACT'S NAME I
Thomas Kramer
PROFESSIONAL TITLE I
Urban Forester
CITY FORESTRY CONTACT'S ADDRESS
2200 Bunker Hill Rd Dubuque, IA 52001-3010 United States
CITY FORESTRY CONTACT'S EMAIL ADDRESS �
tokramer@cityofdubuq ue.org
PHONENUMBER
+1 (563)589-4298
Standard 1 - A Tree Board or Department
SELECT WHICH BEST DESCRIBES YOUR COMMUNITY I
Community has a Tree Board Only
TREE BOARD MEETING FREQUENCY
Monthly
�����������
CHAIRPERSON'S NAME
Ray Werner
PROFESSIONAL TITLE
CHAIRPERSON'S ADDRESS
2595 Greeley Street Dubuque, IA 52001-3010 United States
EMAIL ADDRESS
werner.ray@gmail.com
PHONENUMBER
+1 (319)269-9318
HOW MANY ADDITIONAL TREE BOARD MEMBERS ARE THERE?
5
Board Member 1
BOARD MEMBER 1 NAME
Rob McCoy
BOARD MEMBER 1 EMAIL
aucarpal@icloud.com
Board Member 2
https:llapplications.arborday.org/s1/submission/portal?subid=328728&evtid=148890 2l7
12/'I V2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Application Portal
BOARD MEMBER2NAME
Robin Kennicker
BOARD MEMBER 2 EMAIL
rkennicker@mchsi.com
Board Member 3
BOARD MEMBER3NAME
Jennifer Tigges
BOARD MEMBER 3 EMAIL
producer@videocreations.com
Board Member 4
BOARD MEMBER 4 NAME
Hobie Wood
BOARD MEMBER 4 EMAIL
Hobiejwood@gmai I.com
Board Member 5
BOARD MEMBERSNAME
Justin Hochberger
BOARD MEMBER 5 EMAIL
hoch62694@gmail.com
Please upload full name and email address for any additional tree
board members.
ATTACHMENTS
UPLOAD ATTACHMENT
7th 7th�ommission
Dec 11,2020 View
Commisslon Member with email
9:34:18 AM CST Dowrdoad
Member address
Standard 2 - A Community Tree Ordinance
DATE CURRENT TREE ORDINANCE WAS ESTABLISHED
2/15
* Attach File
Each applicant is required to upload their community's current tree
ordinance.
Qick here to view a sample Tree City USA ordinance with a Tree Board.
https:/lapplications.arborday.org/st/submission/portal?subid=3287288evfid=148890 3l7 I
12I1U2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Application Portal
Clid< here to view a sample Tree City USA ordinance without a Tree
Board.
ATTACHMENTS
UPLOAD ATTACHMENT
Tree Tree Ordinance- Dec 11, 2020 9:49:37 View
Ordinance 2015 AM CST Download
Standard 3 - A community forestry program with an
annual budget of at least $2 per capita
Please answer the questions below with the full numerical
amounts and do not use symbols or commas. (i.e. 5000.01 not
$5,000.01). lf a category does not apply to you, please enter 0.
For a list of qualifying expenses, dick here.
* Community Population
60,000
*Tree Planting and Initial Care
Include cost of tree purchases, labor and equipment for planting,
planting materials, stakes,wrapping,watering, mulching, competition
control, etc.
0
* Tree Maintenance
Indude pruning, insect and disease management,fertilization,watering,
etc.
0
*Tree Remaval
Indude cost of equipment, supplies, labor, etc.
0
* Management
Indude public education, professional training, memberships, salaries,
street and park tree inventory.
0
Utility Line Clearance
(If allowed by your state mordinator).
0
*Volunteer Time
Number of volunteer hours and other contributions from civic
organizations.
https:llapplications.arborday.orgls Vsubmissionlportal?subid=328728&evtid=148890 4l7
12111/2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Application Portal
Correct Examples:
• 10
• 12
• 284
• 3778
Incorrect Examples:
• 10 hrs
• 12 hours
• $2$4.94
• 3,678
0
Other
Include any other expenses not mentioned.
431258.00
Please specify other expenses(if applicable)
TOTAL Expenditure Per Capita: �
TOTAL Expenditures: 431258.00
Community Tree Management Statistics
Please include only whole numbers below.
NUMBER OF TREES PLANTED
81
NUMBER OF TREES PRUNED
150
NUMBER OF TREES REMOVED
300
Attach Files
Annual work plan (if required by your state).
ATTAC H M ENTS
UPLOAD ATTACHMENT
Annual Dec 11, 2020 9:53:49 AM View I
Annual Plan
Plan CST Download
Supporting budget document(s).
ATTAC H M ENTS
https://applications.arborday.org/si/submissionlportal?subid=328728&evtid=148890 5l7
12I11I2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Appllcation Portal
UPLOAD ATTACHMENT
2019 Calendar 2019 Calendar Dec 11,2020 View
Expenses Expenses 12:11:51 PM CST Download
Standard 4 - An Arbor Day Observance and
Proclamation
DATE OBSERVANCE WAS HELD
4/24/20
Attach Your Signed Arbor Day Proclamation
ATTACH M E NTS
UPLOAD ATTACHMENT
Signed
Dec 11,2020 View
Prodamation Prodamation
9:5520 AM CST Download
4/24/2020
Supplemental files
This can be a program from your Arbor Day events, photos, or press
releases.
ATTACH M E NTS
UPLOAD ATTACHMENT
No Data
State Specific Questions
WHAT DOES EARNING TREE CITY USA RECOGNITION MEAN TO YOUR
COMMUNITY?
Earning the Tree City USA recognition would mean that we can continue
to show visitors and prospective residents that trees, conservation, and
the environment are importantto us.
Signature Form
* Before you print off your signature form, all sections of the
application must be complete.
To finalize your application,you will need to obtain a signature of
your mayor or top city official.Your application requires the
appropriate signature to be complete.
https:llapplications.arborday.org/s1/submission/portal?subid=328728&evtid=148890 6/7
12/19/2020 Arbor Day-Tree Program Applications Application Portal
Download Mayor Signature Form
Please press the submit button below, once your application is
complete.A suaessfully submitted application,will redirect you to a
new page. If you are not redireded, please scroll to the top of your
application to see a notification of what information is missing/incorrect
in order to submit your application.
Please press the submit button below, once your application is
complete.A successfully submitted application will redirect you to a
new page. If you are not redirected, please scroll to the top of your
applicatlon to see a notification of what information is missing/incorrect
in order to submltyour application.
, .:::,�
� ,i
https://applications.arborday.org/s1/submissionlportal?subid=328728&evtid=148890 7/7
Tree City USA Application
7`" Commission Member:
Jessica Ochoa
jessness.ochoa @gma i I.com
CITY OF DUBUQUE
STREET TREE AND LANDSCAPING ON PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY POLICY
This policy regulates the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees, shrubs, and
vegetation in public rights-of-way.
I. DEFINITIONS.
For the purpose of this Policy the following terms, phrases, words, and their derivations
have the meaning given herein:
1. C�- The City of Dubuque, lowa.
2. LeisureServicesDepartment-ThedesignatedCitydepartmentunderwhose
jurisdiction trees and landscaping in public rights-of-way fall.
3. Citv Forester or Desiqnee - The qualified designated official assigned to
enforce this Policy.
4. City Enqineerinq Department - The designated department under whose
jurisdiction public rights-of-way, including but not limited to sidewalks and
roadways, fall.
5. Plantinq lawn - The area between the roadway (or back of curb) and
sidewalk.
6. Parkwav-The area, excluding the sidewalk, if any, between the property line
and the curb, or in the absence of a curb, between the property line and the
nearest edge of the street paving.
7. Street tree - A tree located in the planting lawn, planted by the City, by an
approved contractor of the City, or by another party having first secured the
City's permission.
8. Small trees - Designated as those attaining a height of fifteen feet (15') to
thirty-five feet (35').
9. Medium trees - Designated as those attaining a height of thirty-five feet (35')
to forty feet (40').
10. Larqe trees - Designated as those attaining a height of forty feet (40')to sixty
feet (60').
11. Undesirable trees - Trees not suitable for use as street trees because they
exhibit negative characteristics, including but not limited to the following:
thorn production, weak branching habit, messy fruit production, or disease
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susceptibility.
12. Shrub -A perennial woody plant having several stems originating at the base
and relatively low in height, generally less than twenty feet (20'); a bush is
often used interchangeably with a shrub and is usually less than six feet (6')
tall. '
13. Non-woody veqetation - Herbaceous plants that have leaves and stems that
die down to the soil level at the end of the growing season and have no
persistent woody stem above ground. Herbaceous plants may be annual,
biennial, or perennial. They are planted in a manner which enhances and
improves aesthetic appearance and promotes capturing and usage of
stormwater runoff while complying with restrictions set forth in this Policy.
I
14. Landscapinq - Improving the planting lawn or other public right-of-way by
planting trees, shrubs, and other vegetation for functional and aesthetic
purposes.
15. Undesirable landscapinq - Landscaping not suitable for use in the public
right-of-way, including but not limited to the following: fruit and vegetables,
noxious weeds, nuisance plants, plants having thorns, spines, and prickles,
or others as deemed undesirable by the City Forester.
16. Immediate danqer or threat - A tree, shrub, or other planting condition that
risks public safety and requires the immediate attention of the City Forester.
17. Riqht-of-wav trees and brush - Trees and brush found growing on public
right-of-way, but not in a planting lawn as defined above. This includes but is
not limited to trees and brush that have established naturally or trees and
other vegetation that were at one time planted by an adjoining private
property owner.
18. Sidewalk plantinq pit - An area within a paved surface where a tree is
planted.
19. Revocable license - A license issued for landscaping and planting
placements that are approved and meet all the requirements of this Policy.
20. Permit s - Allowing the planting, trimming, removal, or treatment of any
tree(s) growing on City property is required. When and where it is indicated
that "with written permission" or "prior approval by the City Forester is
needed" an application will need to be made.
21 . SUDAS - Statewide Urban Design & Specifications, Chapter 10 of the
Design Manual and Division 9, Section 9030 of the Specification Manual will
have Supplemental Specifications for City requirements and refer to this
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Policy by reference.
22. Riqht-of-way - The land area of which the right to possession is secured or
reserved by the City for roadway purposes.
23. Appeals - Citizens wishing to appeal any of the requirements of this Policy,
process, or fees must submit the appeal in writing to the City Manager.
II. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
1. Ownership. Trees growing on the property line are the joint property of both parties
by law.
2. Maintenance and Removal. Maintenance and removal of publically owned trees will
be completed on a priority basis. Street trees and trees planted on other developed
publically owned properties will be the highest priority. Trees on undeveloped public right-
of-ways and properties will be a lower priority; private property owners may be given
permission to remove trees on undeveloped public right-of-ways. Trees planted by private
property owners or trees that have naturally established themselves on the right-of-way
where no sidewalk exists are the responsibility of the adjoining property owner.
3. Tree Trimminq/Pruninq Removal Grindinq. Any plantings obstructing street tree
removal, trimming/pruning, or stump grinding will not be replaced if damaged during those
operations.The City Forester wil I not attempt to contact the abutting owner prior to any tree
maintenance operation.
4. Relocation of Trees Shrubs Landscapinp. Wheneverthe City paves or repaves any
street or changes the grade line of any street or public place or constructs or reconstructs
any conduit, water main service, or water connection, sewer, or other municipal public
works or utility, the abutting owner must, when so ordered by the City, remove any such,
privately-planted trees, shrubs, non-woody vegetation, or other landscaping from the public
right-of-way to accommodate such work. If the abutting owner fails to remove such shrubs,
non-woody vegetation, or other landscaping removal will be done by the City as part of the
construction project and the costs of removal will be assessed to the abutting owner and
given to the County Treasurer for collection in the same manner as property taxes.
5. Violations. Any person who fails to comply with the terms and conditions of this
Policy or approved license after written notice from the City will lose his or her license and
not be granted another such license without approval of the City Manager.
III. APPROVAL, LICENSE REQUIREMENTS.
Prior approval from the City Forester is required before planting any tree on public right of-
way. A one-time courtesy or revocable license will be required from the City Manager, City
Engineer, and/or Leisure Services depending upon the scope of project.
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IV. STREET TREES.
1. General Requirements.
ii
A. Only the Leisure Services Department or those contracted or approved by
the Leisure Services Department may plant, spray, fertilize, preserve, prune,
remove, cut above ground, or otherwise disturb any tree located within the
planting lawn. All tree care practices must conform to the standards
approved by the National Arborist Association, the International Society of
Arboriculture, and the American National Standard ANSI 2133.1 Safety
Requirements.
B. If a property owner or tenant has planted an undesirable tree, or after
September 15, 1988, plants a tree that does not meet the specifications set
forth in this Policy, the Leisure Services Department will notify the property
owner or tenant of this Policy and ask that the tree be removed. If the tree is
not removed by the date established, the tree will be removed and costs of
removal will be assessed to the abutting owner and given to the County
Treasurer for collection in the same manner as property taxes.
C. In any planting lawn less than four feet (4') in width, the City Forester will
determine if a tree can be planted based on site suitability. In planting lawns
that measure between four feet (4') and five feet(5') in width, both small and
medium size trees may be planted. In planting lawns greater than five feet
(5') in width, large trees may be planted. Sidewalk planting pits must have a
minimum of thirty-six(36) square feet of exposed ground and be a minimum
of three feet (3') deep.
D. Small trees must be used where overhead lines or building setback present
special problems, regardless of the size of the planting lawn. Small and
medium size trees must be used in planting pits.
E. Trees must be planted at least fifty feet (50') feet from the edge of street
intersections, traffic control lights and stop signs, and at least ten feet (10')
from driveways and fifteen feet (15') from alleys. The exact location will be
determined according to the type of tree to be planted.
F. No tree may be planted closer than twenty-five feet (25') from a street light
and ten feet (10') from a utility pole, water shut-off, hydrant, or gas line
lateral.
G. Spacing of trees will be determined by the City Forester according to local
conditions, the species, cultivars, or varieties used, and mature height,
spread, and forms. Generally, all large trees must be planted forty feet (40')
to sixty feet (60') apart. All medium trees must be planted a minimum of
thirty-five feet (35') apart. All small trees must be planted a minimum of
4
twenty-five feet (25') feet apart.
H. When a tree is removed from a planting lawn, the City will replace it if budget
considerations and this Policy allow replacement. If a property owner wants a
tree planted where one does not exist, the City will provide fifty percent
(50%) of the cost to plant the tree, if budget considerations and this Policy
allow.
If the City is unable to fund replacement or share the cost of adding a tree,
the property owner may purchase a tree, and the Leisure Services
Department will plant it. The property owner may plant this tree provided the
City Forester has approved the tree type and its location.
I. When the tree removed is from a planting lawn less than four feet (4') in
width, the City may provide and plant a tree beyond the sidewalk on private
property (in the front yard) at the request of the property owner, based on
site suitability as determined by the City Forester, and if budget
considerations allow. Such tree then becomes the property and responsibility
of the property owner.
If it is determined that there is no room to plant a tree on the neighboring
private property, an exception may be made to replace the tree in the
planting lawn at the City Forester's discretion. Small and medium trees
would be considered for replacement based on the size of the planting lawn
and if budget considerations allow.
J. When special conditions or circumstances that are not directly covered in this
Policy arise, the Leisure Services Department will decide the proper course
of action.
K. The City Forester will select the type of street tree to be planted with input
from the property owner.
L. Violations. Any person who fails to comply with the terms and conditions of
this Policy or approved license after written notice from the City, will lose his
or her license and not be granted another such license without approval of
the City Manager.
2. Prolect Related Trees.
A. Project submittals to Engineering for future street trees must include a street
tree planting layout, the quantity, species/cultivar, and location for the City
Forester's review.
B. One (1)year establishment and warranty periods begin after the installation
is accepted by the Engineer. Care and maintenance of all plants will be the
5
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responsibility of the contractor during that time. The Engineer may add �
additional years.
3. Tvpes of Trees Allowed.
A. A list is prepared by the City Forester of small, medium, and large trees
acceptable for planting as street trees. Undesirable trees will not be used for
general planting; their use, if any, will be limited to locations where, because
of certain characteristics of adaptability or for landscape effect, they are
advantageous. The tree list will be updated as needed and posted on the
City's website.
B. Only desirable, long-lived trees of good appearance, beauty, adaptability,
that are generally free from injurious insects or disease will be planted as
street trees. The City Forester will review the species, cultivars, and varieties
included on the list as needed to determine if any trees should be removed.
C. The recommended street tree listing is a compilation of tree varieties chosen
to meet City street tree planting needs and species diversity. Selections are
based upon tree size and stature, crown development, hardiness, disease
resistance, fruit/seed production, and urban tolerance.The City Foresterwill
use this list when making placement decisions. It will not be used by anyone
else because one tree, size, or selection does not fit all potential locations.
4. Plantin .
A. Size. Unless otherwise specified by the City Forester, all small deciduous
tree species, and their cultivars or varieties, must be at least five feet (5') to
six feet (6') feet in height, have six (6) or more branches, and must be at
least one inch (1") in diameter and planted six inches (6") above ground
level.
All medium and large deciduous tree species, their cultivars and varieties
must be at least one and one-fourth inches (1 '/4')to one and one-half inches
(1 '/z') in diameter six inches (6") above ground level, and at least eight feet
(8') to ten feet (10') in height when planted. The crown must be in good
balance with the trunk.
B. Grade. Unless otherwise allowed for specific reasons, all trees must have
comparatively straight trunks, well-developed leaders and tops, and roots
characteristic of the species, cultivar, or variety showing evidence of proper
nursery pruning. All trees must be free of insects, disease, mechanical injury,
and other objectionable features at the time of planting, and conform to
standards set forth in American Standards for Nursery Stock.
C. Depth. All trees planted on City right-of-way must be planted so the tree's
buttress root flare is at-grade.
6
D. Transport Materials. Root balls are fragile and should be handled carefully.
All tree root balls must have the transport materials removed or cut back
conforming to industry standards, prior to backfilling. Those materials include
but are not limited to hard plastic and fiber peat pot containers, fabric grow
bags, wire baskets, and all natural and treated burlap and twine used on
balled-in-burlap trees.
5. Pruninq Treatment, and Removal.
A. Pruning. Topping or dehorning of trees is not permitted, except with written
permission of the City Forester.
Established trees must be pruned over the tree's lifetime to allow free
passage of pedestrian and vehicular traffic; to attain a desired branch height
of ten feet (10') over sidewalks and recreational trails, and fourteen feet(14')
over streets and alleys.
A tree's age, size, location, condition, and natural form are factors that
determine the extent of pruning.
B. Treatment. Any treatment of street trees will be completed by City Forestry
staff unless treatment option by abutting owner is approved by City Forester
and paid for by that owner.
C. Stump Removal. The stumps of trees removed must be cut to at least six
inches (6") below the ground, soil must be replaced and the area must be
leveled. If the area where the tree is removed will be paved, the tree must be
cut or the stump must be removed at least eight inches (8") below the
ground.
D. Tree Trimming/Pruning, Removal, or Grinding. Any plantings obstructing tree
removal, trimming/pruning, or stump grinding will not be replaced if damaged
during those operations. The City Forester will not attempt to contact the
abutting owner prior to any tree maintenance operation.
6. Tree Roots Affectinq Sidewalk.
A. City street trees that cause or raise problems with sidewalks will be removed
by the City, only when it meets the City Forester's predetermined removal
criteria. This criteria prevents the indiscriminant removal of a valuable
resource. City street trees will be removed only when one (1) or more of the
following is met:
1) The tree is in a state of decline due to disease or insect pest for which
7
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a cure is unlikely.
2) The tree poses a safety risk that cannot be corrected, or an
unreasonable safety risk would be created by the construction
process or root pruning.
3) Required work improvements around the tree will likely kill or render i
the tree a hazard.
4) Tree preservation is not cost effective compared to the tree's
monetary value.
5) The tree is a public nuisance because of its species, size, location,
fruit and seed drop, limb breakage, or other objectionable condition.
6) The aesthetic value of the tree is extremely low, or the tree interferes
with the growth and development of a more desirable tree.
When a City street tree's root(s)causes or raises problems with the sidewalk
and the tree's removal is not an option, the sidewalk will be repaired using
the approved replacement modifications which best corrects the sidewalk
anomaly while minimizing harm to the tree.
B. City street trees that crack or raise problems for City curbs or streets, cause
intersection site problems, or cause non-sidewalk related public safety
problems (such as dead or dying trees) will be removed by the City when
they cannot be saved or branches or roots cannot be pruned properly. The
adjacent property owner will be given five (5)working days' notice by regular
U.S. mail that the tree will be removed and the reasons for removal. The
notice will state that the adjacent property owner may appeal such removal to
the City Manager. Such appeal must be in writing to the City Manager within
the five (5) working day period. This notice and appeal does not apply to a
tree posing an immediate danger or threat to public safety, requiring
immediate removal.
V. LANDSCAPING ON PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY.
Section IV, Street Trees, set forth above does not address, permit, or regulate planting
groups of shrubs, non-woody vegetation, or other landscaping on public rights-of-way.This
Section governs the planting, maintaining, and removal of groups of shrubs, non-woody
vegetation, or other landscaping on public rights-of-way for landscaping purposes.
1 . General Notes.
A. Landscaping and/or screening required bythe City's Zoning Ordinance may
not be placed on City right-of-way.
B. The property owner must plant and maintain the shrubs, non-woody
8
vegetation, or other landscaping according to this policy. The applicant is
responsible for any and all liability arising from the planting of shrubs, non-
woody vegetation, or other landscaping on City property.
2. Plantinqs Permitted. A property owner in the City may plant, care for, and maintain
shrubs, non-woody vegetation, or other landscaping ("plantings") in the public right-
of-way. It is the responsibility of the property owner to trim and maintain all plantings
so there is no overhang onto, over, or into the sidewalk or street. Placement of
moisture retention materials, weed control, and containment measures may be
used. The plantings are subject to the restrictions below:
A. Any person planting in the public right-of-way must contact lowa One Call
System for utility locations. These locations will give approximate alignment
but not depth. The use of inechanical equipment for tilling is now allowed.
Hand digging is recommended.
B. Plantings may not exceed eighteen inches (18") in height; may not overhang
onto the public sidewalk, curb, or roadway; may not be within twenty feet
(20') from intersections.
C. Plantings are permitted along areas of parking and bus stops. However, if
complaints are received, removal, reduction, trimming, or other order will be
determined by the City Manager.
D. Any placement of planters with plantings will require a revocable license
approval process.
E. Where no public sidewalk exists, a four foot (4') unobstructed path will be
identified by Engineering. This area must be kept free from any plantings and
also be maintained by the abutting owner.
3. Enforcement. Complaints will be logged and investigated. Violators will be notified in
writing of the violations and given a compliance deadline. If the City receives
subsequent complaints of the failure to comply, the City or City's designated
contractor will trim or remove non-compliant plantings. The City will assess any
costs associated with that work at the County Treasurer's Office to be collected in
the same manner as property taxes.
4. Plantinqs Obstructinq Tree Trimminq/Pruninq, Removal, Grindinq. The City is not
liable for damage to plantings that obstruct street tree removal,trimming/pruning, or
stump grinding which are damaged or destroyed during those operations. The City
Forester will not attempt to contact the abutting owner prior to any street tree
maintenance operation.
5. Violations. Any person who fails to comply with the terms and conditions of this
Policy may be issued a municipal infraction.
9
VI. STREET CONSTRUCTION.
1 . Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to prevent or minimize damage to street
trees as a result of street construction activities. This Section provides an
administrative procedure to follow when street trees are encountered in street,
sewer, water, or utility construction projects.
2. Policv.
A. Administrative Procedures. Street and utility construction activities cause
varying degrees of damage to street trees. For this reason, the City Forester
advises other City Departments and private contractors when street
construction activities take place within ten feet (10') of a street tree.
The outlined procedures are followed by all City Departments and
contractors working within the public right-of-way:
1) The City Forester is a technical resource in the design and
construction specification writing phase of City construction projects to
identify issues and potential problems relating to street trees, which
could arise from the construction activities.
2) Prior to the construction of a City street or utility construction contract,
a project representative will walk the project area with the City
Forester to determine what specific procedures should be followed to
protect adjacent street trees. These procedures will be incorporated
into the project specifications.
3) The City Forester, or appropriate representative, will be invited to the
project pre-construction meeting with the contractor to emphasize the
importance of protecting the trees while the work is progressing.
4) The City Forester will attend public meetings and hearings (as
needed)on projects where potential damage to street trees has been
identified by prior inspection and review. Trees intended for trimming
will be identified in the specifications and the public involvement
process.
5) The City Forester will be available to the Engineering Division to
monitor the progress of the contractor and to advise the City
departments or private contractor if the work is not proceeding
according to the adopted specifications relating to tree protection, or if
the specifications should be altered during the progress of the work.
6) The City Forester will be available to discuss in greater detail the
10
anticipated effect on the tree, and to answer property owner's
questions.
7) For privately contracted work, the contracting authority and the
contractor are responsible forthe protection of street trees pursuant to
this policy.
8) Tree Trimming/Pruning, Removal, Grinding.Any plantings obstructing
tree removal, trimming/pruning, or stump grinding will not be replaced
if damaged during those operations. The City Foresterwill not attempt
to contact the abutting owner prior to any tree maintenance operation.
B. Tree Removal. City street trees growing over existing curbs or located too
close to the curb or utility being placed, upgraded, or replaced such that
reconstruction is not feasible without causing death of the tree, will be
removed by the City or the City's designated contractor. In such cases, the
adjacent property owner will be notified as outlined above.
Trees removed for construction projects will be replaced as part of the City
construction contract at no cost to the property owners if the planting lawn is
a minimum of four feet (4') wide and meets other established guidelines in
this Policy. Replacement of removed trees will be done during normal
planting seasons after the construction work is complete.
C. Construction Practices. The construction specifications will outline specific
procedures to be followed by the contractor, along with tree damage
liabilities, including penalties and costs of damage remediation.
Prior to the commencement of construction, the City Forestry crewwill prune
street trees extending over the roadway, which could be damaged.
Contractors must notify the City if damage is done beyond the level
anticipated, and repairs to trees damaged during construction will be made
by the contractor.
When trees are damaged or destroyed due to negligence or non-compliance,
the contractor must pay for the necessary cost of repairs, removals,
replacements, and reimburse the City for loss of value.
Loss of value will be determined by the City Forester, using the most recent
edition of The Council of Tree & Landscape Appraisers Guide for Plant
Appraisal.
The following specific requirements protect and preserve our street trees.
1) All heavy equipment (other than hand tools) must be kept off of the
I1
planting lawn particularly under the drip line of any tree. I
I
2) The planting lawn will not be cut into or disturbed in any way i
particularly within the trees' drip line. This includes creating setbacks �
for new curb and gutter, accommodating slip form pavers, reducing I
the height of the planting lawn or where an alternative exists,
trenching or digging for utilities. If the contractor or an individual
suspects the planting lawn must be disturbed, he or she must notify
Leisure Services and consult with the City Foresterwho will determine
whether such disturbance will be permitted.
Curb and gutter removal will be done in such a way as to minimize
any damage to the tree's root system or above ground parts.
3) The tracks or tires of the excavator/backhoe or pavement grinder, etc.
are not allowed to ride on the curb or planting lawn within a tree's drip
line where it would damage the roots, buttress root flair, trunk or
crown of the tree, without protective measures in place to protect the
tree and avoid soil compaction.
4) Construction equipment or materials, including gravel, sand, or soil,
may not be stored on the surface of any unpaved area within a
protected tree's drip line.
5) Chemicals, rinsates, or petroleum products may not be deposited
within the drip line of City street trees.
6) Exposed tree roots must be protected from direct sunlight and airwith
wet burlap following curb and gutter removal if backfilling is not
completed by the end of the same workday. Prior to backfilling, all
lime stone base material must be removed from behind the newly
poured curb and gutter. Backfilling must be completed with hand tools
to avoid compaction.
7) Where possible and specified by the City Forester, orange plastic
barrier fencing or snow fence must be erected to protect trees and
their root zones. The fencing must be installed prior to construction
and cannot be removed until after final clean-up of the construction
site.
8) To preserve viable root systems and maintain structural stability of a
tree, all underground utility placement or replacement must be done
by boring or tunneling beneath the root systems of the tree with open
cut excavating done only outside of the tree's drip line. If a contractor
or an individual determines boring or tunneling is not possible, he or
she must notify Leisure Services and consult with the City Forester
12
who will determine whether boring or tunneling is possible.
9) Trenchinq/Tunnelinq Near Trees by Dr. James R. Fazio shall be used
as a guide by qualified utility workers.
10) If a root must be cut and removed or a damaged root pruned, a clean
cut must be made with a sharp cutting tool. The following sequence
must be used:
a) Expose the root by hand using hand tools such as shovel,
trowel;
b) Make a clean cut with a sharp tool such as a hand pruner or
hand saw and in the event of larger roots, a chain saw; (root
grinding is not an option);
c) Remove root;
d) Protect exposed root or backfill.
11) Curb and gutter replacement adjacent to street trees may be made
with a slip form paver only if the paver can be accommodated without
any additional alterations to the existing planting lawn. Where
insufficient room does not exist, the area will be poured using hand
set steel forms. Expansion joint or masonite may be necessary for
forming around the base of trees where conventional forms will not fit.
Non-linear paving (bump outs), skip overs, and narrower streets are
all options to consider for avoiding root injury.
12) Where sidewalk replacement is necessary, care must be taken to
avoid injury to the tree's root system. Sidewalk repairs must be made
using the approved replacement modifications that best correct the
sidewalk anomaly while minimizing harm to the tree. Surface roots
less than two inches (2") in diameter may be cut when necessary,
making clean pruning cuts to a maximum depth just below the
finished grade of the new walk. The root system may not be cut
further than five inches (5") away from the edge of the proposed new
walk to accommodate its forms.
13) At no time may the planting lawn grade be changed by removing soil
or through the addition of soil within the tree's drip line.
14) When a situation arises that may potentially harm to the tree and is
clearly not addressed by this Policy, the Engineering Department and
City Forester will determine the best course of action.
13
D. Soil Quality. Backfill soil used in the right-of-way must be friable topsoil. it ;
may not contain admixtures of subsoil and must be free of lumps larger than
two inches (2") in diameter, stones, plants, or their roots or construction I
matter or debris.
VII. GOVERNING CODES.
Governing codes for enforcement of this Policy include lowa Code §364.12; City Code of
Ordinances Title 6, Chapter 8 and Title 10, Chapter 1 .
14
City of Dubuque, lowa
Forestry Annual Plan
The Forestry Activity for the City of Dubuque will respond to requests made by
the citizens of Dubuque and from other departments within the city. We will also I
respond to many more urgent (emergency type) of calls such as wind damaged
trees. With Emerald Ash Borer very present in the City of Dubuque, Ash trees are
declining at an alarming rate. The City is being very proactive in removing Ash
trees. We have approximately 2,000 Ash trees on city property. A plan to replace
some of these trees will be developed this year.
FORESTRY
Activity 10030220
Total Expense Calendar Year 2019
Equals
Total
Calendar
Account Account Title Year 2019
61010 FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES $ 166,723
61030 SEASONAL EMPLOYEES $ 17,319
61050 OVERTIME PAY $ 7,937
61091 SICK LEAVE PAYOFF $ 5,218
61092 VACATION PAYOFF $ -
61310 IPERS $ 18,284
61320 SOCIAL SECURITY $ 13,915
61410 HEALTH INSURANCE $ 44,154
61415 WORKMENS' COMPENSATION $ 24,374
61416 LIFE INSURANCE $ 121
61417 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE $ 1,141
61640 SAFETY EQUIPMENT $ 860
61650 MEALALLOWANCE $ 120
62010 OFFICE SUPPLIES $ 249
62011 UNIFORM PURCHASES $ 2,298
62033 HAND TOOLS/EQUIPMENT $ 778
62208 GENERAL LIABILITY INSURAN $ 3,301
62320 TRAVEL-CITY BUSINESS $ -
62360 EDUCATION &TRAINING $ 1,354
62411 UTILITY EXP-ELECTRICITY $ 2,277
62412 UTILITY EXP-GAS $ 1,589
62421 TELEPHONE $ 475
62431 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE $ 801
62511 FUEL, MOTOR VEHICLE $ 7,635
62521 MOTOR VEHICLE MAINT. $ 4,793
62528 MOTOR VEH. MAINT. OUTSOUR $ -
62611 MACH/EQUIP MAINTENANCE $ 3,487
62614 EQUIP MAINT CONTRACT $ 1,023
62637 LANDSCAPE/FERT/PLANTS $ 1,571
62667 DATASERVICES $ 1,744
62696 OUTSIDE COLLECTOR EXPENSE $ -
62710 CONTRACTOR SERVICES $ -
62720 TREE MAINTENANCE $ 96,708
71120 PERIPHERALS, COMPUTER $ 284
71415 SAWS $ 725
71614 TREE MAINT EQUIPMENT $ -
$ 431,255
�Dus E
dinslerpirce nn Ihr,tlCssissippi
�����������1 V
Whereas, In 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special
day be set aside for the planting of trees, and
Whereas, this holiday, called Arbor Day was first observed with the planting of more than a million
trees in Nebraska, and
Whereas, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world, and
Whereas, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and
cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce life-giving oxygen and
provide habitat for wildlife, and
Whereas, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires
and countless other wood products, and
Whereas. trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business
areas, and beautify our community, and
Whereas, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.
NOW THEREFORE, I, ROY BUOL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA, ON BEHALF OF
THE CITY COUNCIL, STAFF AND THE CITIZENS OF DUBUQUE, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM THE
24'h DAY OF APRIL 2020 AS
"ARBOR DAY"
IN THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA. Further, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart
and promote the well-being of this and future generations.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my
,��( OF �� hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of
G�,:����"`��-.,. �G Dubuque�o be affixed this 20�'' day of April 2020.
=`t►` LA , ' C � ` ,�.
�
.�' .
� ;� PETITE ; �� ROy D-BUOI, M8y0�
Q ',, NUIT ::O`
"6��•• ._: ' �. Attest:
s,•......�. � -
Kevi S. Firnstahl, CMC, City Clerk
i
2020: Submitted and accepted by Hobie Wood of Dubuque Trees Forever. '�
�
2019: Submitted and accepted by Laura Roussell, Sr. Community Affairs Manager for Black Hills
Energy, 1015 Cedar Cross Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, Media Hotline: 866-243-9002.
2018: Submitted by Laura Roussell, Sr. Community Affairs Manager for Black Hills Energy, 1015 '
Cedar Cross Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, Media Hotline: 866-243-9002. Accepted by Laura Roussell and
VP Hobie Wood.
2017: Submitted and accepted by Laura Roussell, Sr. Community Affairs Manager for Black Hills
Energy, 1015 Cedar Cross Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, Media Hotline: 866-243-9002
3 Arbor D
�K
2020 Tree City USA
Application for Certification
The Tree City USA award is in recognition of work completed by the community during the 2020 calendar year.
Primary Contact
Contact Name Thomas Kramer
Email Address: tokramer@cityofdubuque.org
Phone Number: (563) 589-4298
Address: 2200 Bunker Hill Rd
Dubuque, IA 52001-3010
Dubuque, Iowa Community Information
Select Which Best Describes Your Community: Community has a Tree Board Only
Ordinance Date: Feb 15, 2015
Ordinance Uploaded
Per Capita Expenditure: oo
Arbor Day Date:
Proclamation Uploaded
As Mayor or Equivalent of the Community of Dubuque
St I-L / Myce- 1)4/30
Mayor Sff Equivalent Signature Title Date
Application Certification
To Be Completed By The State Forester:
Dubuque
The above named community has made formal application to this office. I am pleased to advise you that we reviewed
the application and have concluded that, based on the information contained herein, said community is eligible to be
certified as a Tree City USA community, for the 2020 calendar year, having in my opinion met the four standards
required for recognition.
State Forester Signature Title Date
Dec 11, 2020 12:12 PM