Discussion and possible action to: (a) accept the Tree Resource Enhancement and Engagement Grant to complete the next step in our City Forestry Program; and (b) authorize a budget amendment in the amount of $5,000 from the Proposed Grant Contingency account to the Contracted Landscape Maintenance account.  

In order to develop a more comprehensive and systematic approach to managing our community forest, as well as achieving the City's livability initiatives, the Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department began an initial phase of the comprehensive tree inventory project in 2019. The inventory gathered important data on species diversity, tree size class distribution, overall health, tree planting needs, priority maintenance concerns and potential threats to the community forest. The inventory was the first step in understanding and making decisions based on the data gathered in the inventory.

To help complete the next step of this project, the City has the opportunity to receive matching funds of 50%, in the amount of $5,000, from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. If approved, the grant funds will be used to reduce the risk to the public by removing or pruning trees identified as requiring some form of mitigation recognized in the tree inventory. This grant will cover eight percent of the total trees recommended for removal in the inventory. By mitigating the risk posed from these trees, we are making Peoria's community a safer place for residents using our public spaces.

The Tree Resource Enhancement and Engagement Grant program (TREE) is a competitive cost-share program provided and administered by the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management Urban and Community Forestry Program, in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service State and Private Forestry program. These grants are offered to accredited Tree City USA communities and Tree Campus USA campuses that plan for, maintain and manage landscape trees to enhance livability by increasing shade footprints through tree canopy development. The purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance to recognized Tree Cities and Tree Campuses for the management, improvement or conservation of community forests.

City Council accepted a $3,000 TREE grant at its September 3, 2019 meeting. This funding was used to help complete the tree inventory project.

A: City Council can accept the grant and approve the associated budget amendment.

B: City Council can choose not to accept the grant.

Staff recommends that City Council accept the TREE grant and approve a budget transfer of $5,000 from the Grant Contingency account.

Staff requests a budget amendment of $5,000 from the Proposed Grant Contingency account (7990-7990-570000) to the Contracted Landscape Maintenance Account (1000-1600-524019), and authorization to use the funds as recommended. Matching funds are available in the current operating budget.