Item - 2024.SE5.1

The Service Excellence Committee:

1. Referred the item to the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation and requested that it be addressed in a presentation anticipated from the Division to the Service Excellence Committee.

I am writing to express my concern regarding the lengthy process involved in removing a dead tree from a city boulevard and replacing it with a new one. My understanding of the current process requires six visits, as follows: 

1. Inspection: City staff inspect the tree to determine if it requires removal.
2. Branch Removal: Staff remove the tree branches.
3. Trunk Removal: Staff remove the tree trunk.
4. Stump Removal: Staff remove the tree stump.
5. Root Removal: Staff remove the tree roots.
6. Tree Planting: Staff plant a new tree.

This multi-step process can take up to two years to complete. I believe this timeline is excessive and negatively impacts the aesthetic and environmental value of our neighbourhoods.

I propose streamlining this process to involve only two visits:

1. Inspection and Assessment: City would inspect the tree and determine if removal is necessary. If so, they would assess the overall condition of the boulevard and identify the type of tree suitable for replacement.
2. Removal, Root Removal, and Planting: In a single visit, staff would remove the dead tree, including its roots, and immediately plant a new tree.

By consolidating these steps, the city can significantly reduce the time required to replace dead trees and improve the overall appearance of our boulevards.

I would appreciate the committee’s attention to this matter and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this issue further.