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Motion adopted. Ordinance 13-2021 deferred. ORDINANCE 39-2020 - AN ORDINANCE to take effect immediately provided it receives the affirmative vote of at least two thirds of the members of Council to amend Section 565.02, Authority of Director of Public Works, 565.06, Care of trees during Building Operations, 565.07, Moving of Trees, 565.10 Prohibited trees, and Section 565.11, Preservation and Removal of Trees on Public Property, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Lakewood to articulate public noticing regarding planned tree removals, the role of the Tree Advisory & Education Board in the process and the resolved principles guiding forestry strategy. Councilmember Kepple introduced Ordinance 39-2020, explaining that its purpose is to create more opportunities for community engagement and input around tree removals. The ordinance refers to the 2019 tree polices and practices ordinance. She explained the highlights of the substitute version including: • A required annual report on tree removals to be submitted to the Tree Board • 30 day written notice to property owners before removal of a tree lawn tree and update to the Tree Board Councilmember Kepple acknowledged that much of this work is already happening and that this ordinance will shine a light on that. Councilmember Bullock remarked that with sufficient maintenance and care that the life of trees can be extended and that tree removals should not be simply assumed. He asked if the intent of the ordinance is to help improve tree care practices. Councilmember Kepple replied that the intent of the ordinance is more focused on increasing public engagement and communication. Councilmember Shachner remarked that he is contacted very frequently by residents about tree issues. He acknowledged that there is almost always a good reason for a tree to be removed in the City but that without communication, the public will speculate. He expressed support for the annual report and for providing the public with a venue to ask questions and to voice concerns. He asked if there is anything within the ordinance that would stop Public Works from removing a tree or from moving forward with its plans. Councilmember Kepple responded that any language that may have been interpreted that way has now been removed. She also added that pre-notification does not apply to reoutine pruning or emergencies. Assistant Director Swallow discussed the administration's proposed substitute. She remarked that the City and the administration have come along way in their discussions since this was originally introduced. She expressed the administration's continued concern about the proposed requirement to report a tree removal immediately after the removal (if it had not been planned). The administration also has concerns about the requirement to provide 30-day notice to a 2