Title
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT FUNDING FROM THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF FORESTRY, FOR A LAKE ERIE WATERSHED CANOPY RESTORATION GRANT.
Executive Summary: Funds supplied by the USDA Forest Service, are intended to aid local jurisdictions in the response and recovery of urban forests from the Emerald Ash Borer and require a 50% match. The planting of trees along public right-of-way or on other public lands are the only eligible reimbursement costs. Cities located entirely or partially within the Cuyahoga River area of concern or watersheds that drain to the area of concern are eligible to submit proposals for consideration. The goal of the program is to replace ash trees, improve watershed health, enhance quality of life, promote urban forestry benefits, support comprehensive community tree care programs, and promote Ohio arboriculture and landscape industries.
Body
Legislative History
Resolution No. 15-103 to apply for the grant was passed on July 21, 2015.
Purpose & Explanation
The City of Hudson has a plan to replace 230 ash trees in the public right-of-way before January 1, 2017. The cost is $50,000. The Lake Erie Watershed Canopy Restoration Grant will cover 50% ($25,000) of this cost. Funds from the street tree budget would be utilized for the remaining $25,000.
Timing Considerations
Related tree plantings will begin in the Spring of 2016, and the City will request reimbursement of funds through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Fiscal Impact
X Currently Budgeted
Supplemental Appropriation Required
Appropriation Not Required.
Recommendation
Suggested Action
Staff recommends that City Council authorize the City Manager to accept funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry for a 2015 Lake Erie Watershed Canopy Restoration Grant in the amount of $25,000.
Submitted by,
Jane Howington, City Manager
Frank Comeriato, Asst. City Manager - Operations
Eric Hutchinson, Assistant Public Works Director
Tom Munn, Public Works Superintendent - Services
Rhonda Kadish, Grants Coordinator