September 13, 2007

AVCA September meeting focuses on city tree preservation and services

By Jeanne Carbone Lewis
Staff Writer

San Jose policy representative Kevin Briggs and arborist Ralph Mize discussed tree preservation and services at the Sept. 10 meeting of the Almaden Valley Community Association [AVCA] held at the Camden Community Center.

Briggs said the city has started a review of its tree-related services and regulations. Meetings are being held to address community concerns about tree policy and services, outline a strategy for improvement and to obtain input and suggestions to refine procedures to make the urban forest healthier and more vital.

AVCA President Art Boudreault suggested that San Jose should consider planting a tree for every new resident as a future vision.

Community meetings that are scheduled will be held at the following times and locations:

- Monday, Sept. 17
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Berryessa Branch Library
3355 Noble Ave.

- Wednesday, Sept. 19
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Camden Community Center
3369 Union Ave.

- Saturday, Sept. 22
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Evergreen Branch Library
2635 Aborn Road

For additional information, visit www.sanjoseca.gov/publicworks or call Kevin Briggs at (408) 535-8108.

City arborist Ralph Mize discussed tree policy. Trees within the public right-of-way in front of the house are called street trees [usually 10 feet from the curb line]. The city requests that a street tree be planted in front of each new residence. Responsibility for the care and maintenance of the sidewalks and park strip area, including the street tree, rests with the adjacent property owner.

No street tree may be cut unless approved by a permit. The permit will be posted for 17 days during which time residents may protest. A hearing will decide the outcome. If tree removal is approved, the city will remove the tree but the homeowner is responsible for stump grinding. The owner has 60 days to replant a new tree unless removal is during the summer months. Any tree 18 inches in width or with a 54 inch circumference is subject to a permit whether a street tree or on the property.

For a permit or information call (408) 277-7762.

Our City Forest [OCF] provides an array of tree planting and related services to urban neighborhoods throughout Silicon Valley. OCF also provides free trees and materials through special grants. To inquire about OCF’s programs or services, call (408) 998-7337.

Other Business
AVCA President Art Boudreault stated that members need to volunteer on membership, community liaison, planning and zoning, transportation, education and parks and recreation committees. For more information on becoming a member of AVCA visit www.avca-sj.org.

AVCA’s October meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 1. The speaker will be Dan Collen, senior engineer for county roads.