City Council Debates Tree Ordinance, Fireworks Ban, and Public Safety Building Site

Tree Ordinance Amendment Discussion

The Gearhart City Council held a public hearing to discuss Ordinance 942, which proposes amendments to the city's zoning ordinance regarding the preservation and removal of trees. Garrett Phillips, an assistant involved in the process, presented the staff report. He explained that the Planning Commission had recommended the ordinance after several public meetings and feedback sessions. The purpose of the ordinance is to make it easier for city staff to monitor tree removal activities and respond to citizen concerns.

The ordinance includes several key changes:

1. Exempting three invasive tree species from permit requirements.
2. Clarifying measurement criteria for multi-trunk trees.
3. Allowing residents to hire an arborist to declare a tree hazardous, thereby bypassing the need for a permit.

Public comments were diverse. Diana Mansell suggested adding more invasive species to the exemption list. Angela Siddlow read a letter from Robert Carson advocating for the preservation of trees, particularly in riparian zones. Robin Lane emphasized the ecological and aesthetic value of trees in Gearhart. Some residents, like Matthew Johnson, had questions about the application process and mitigation requirements. Bill Corby expressed concerns about verifying tree sizes and the cost of hiring certified arborists.

The council decided to continue the discussion in the September meeting to allow more time for public input and further review. Councilor Dana Gould proposed reopening the record and continuing the discussion, which was seconded and approved unanimously.