Zoning board urges county to craft a simple, enforceable tree ordinance

The McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals amended its agenda and voted unanimously to recommend that the McHenry County Board develop a countywide tree ordinance.

Charlie Eldridge introduced the discussion, saying board members have seen repeated instances where tree removal during development has been a concern and asking the County Board to provide policy guidance. "I would like to urge them to consider this issue and establish whatever policy they think is appropriate for the county," Eldridge said.

Members said they want guidance that is clear and simple to administer so it does not overburden homeowners while still enabling mitigation or protections when large numbers of notable trees are removed. Jess Beverly said she has been working with county board members, staff and nonprofits and that the issue is "on everybody's radar." Kurt Schnabel urged that any ordinance not be "too complex, too hard to enforce, too hard to interpret." Mary Donner and others noted the difficulty of defining which trees should be preserved and emphasized careful wording to avoid undue burdens on private property owners.

Board members raised specific concerns about solar farms and other large developments that can lead to clear-cutting of woodlands; several said a county ordinance would make tree-study expectations clear earlier in the permitting process so applicants provide studies proactively. The board recommended the County Board consider a Uniform Development Ordinance change or other policy so developers and petitioners know expectations up front.

The recommendation passed by voice/roll call vote, 7-0, and will be forwarded to the McHenry County Board for further consideration.