Drafter
Clerk 06/05/2024
title
A MOTION acknowledging receipt of a tree code update report, in response to the 2023-2024 Biennial Budget Ordinance, Ordinance 19546, Section 90, Proviso P2
body
WHEREAS, the 2023-2024 Biennial Budget Ordinance, Ordinance 19546, Section 90, Proviso P2, states that $100,000 of the appropriation "shall not be expended or encumbered until the executive transmits a tree code update report and a motion acknowledging receipt of the report is passed by council. The motion should reference the subject matter, the proviso's ordinance number, ordinance section and proviso number in both the title and body of the motion. The report shall include, but not be limited, to the following:
A. A description of current tree regulations for urban unincorporated areas, and the enforcement mechanisms for the county's current regulations;
B. A description of tree retention regulations and enforcement mechanisms for urban areas in neighboring western Washington and King county cities;
C. A description of industry best practices for tree retention regulation, and enforcement mechanisms, in urban areas;
D. An evaluation and recommendation of whether and how the county's urban unincorporated areas tree retention regulations or enforcement mechanisms, or both, should be updated given other jurisdiction's requirements or industry best practices; and
E. If updates are recommended, a timeline and public engagement strategy for completing the update and transmitting a proposed ordinance to council," and WHEREAS, the King County executive is committed to implementing urban tree retention regulations and enforcement mechanisms that ensure the urban forest continues to store carbon and provide climate benefits, improve water and air quality, enhance habitat for salmon and other wildlife, reduce polluted stormwater runoff in our communities and waterways, offer recreational opportunities, and provide cool shade for streams and sidewalks, and
WHEREAS, the King County executive hereby transmits to the council the tree code update report required in Ordinance 19546, Section 90, Proviso P2;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT MOVED by the Council of King County:
Receipt of a tree code update report, Attachment A to this motion, is hereby acknowledged.