Board adds ODNR-recommended tree-planting plan to agenda and favors opt‑in for residents

After a motion to add the item to the agenda was made and seconded, the board discussed a tree-planting plan suggested by ODNR that targets areas which lost Bradford pears. Parks department staff said the plan focuses planting in higher-need census tracts and can be adjusted for species or locations. "The places were primarily chosen because trees were removed a heavy amount of Bradford Pears were removed from there," staff said.

Commissioners raised concerns about sight-lines and planting in rights-of-way adjacent to streets; staff replied the city can plant in tree lawns and will maintain new plantings for the first two years. Staff proposed offering residents a choice rather than automatic installation; the board agreed an opt-in approach is appropriate and staff described outreach via postcard, door-knocking and calls to engage residents in high-priority areas.