HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-24-2022 TC Agenda Packet
Tree Committee
AGENDA
Monday, October 24, 2022, 5:30 p.m.
Council Hearing Room, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo
The City of San Luis Obispo has returned to in-person meetings. Zoom participation will not be
supported. For those attending in-person, City facilities will be at limited capacity and masks are
strongly recommended.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PUBLIC COMMENT:
Public Comment prior to the meeting (must be received 3 hours in advance of the meeting):
Mail - Delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. Address letters to the City Clerk's Office at 990
Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, 93401.
Email - Submit Public Comments via email to advisorybodies@slocity.org. In the body of your
email, please include the date of the meeting and the item number (if applicable). Emails will not
be read aloud during the meeting.
Voicemail - Call (805) 781-7164 and leave a voicemail. Please state and spell your name, the
agenda item number you are calling about, and leave your comment. Verbal comments must be
limited to 3 minutes. Voicemails will not be played during the meeting.
*All correspondence will be archived and distributed to members, however, submissions received
after the deadline will not be processed until the following day.
Public Comment during the meeting:
Meetings have returned to an in-person format. To provide public comment during the meeting,
you must be present in the Council Hearing Room.
Electronic Visual Aid Presentation. To conform with the City's Network Access and Use Policy,
Chapter 1.3.8 of the Council Policies & Procedures Manual, members of the public who desire
to utilize electronic visual aids to supplement their oral presentation are encouraged to provide
display-ready material to the City Clerk by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Contact the
City Clerk's Office at cityclerk@slocity.org or (805) 781-7100.
Pages
1.CALL TO ORDER
Chair Canella will call the Regular Meeting of the Tree Committee to order.
2.PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
The public is encouraged to submit comments on any subject within the
jurisdiction of the Tree Committee that does not appear on this agenda.
Although the Committee will not take action on items presented during the
Public Comment Period, the Chair may direct staff to place an item on a future
agenda for discussion.
3.CONSENT
Matters appearing on the Consent Calendar are expected to be non-
controversial and will be acted upon at one time. A member of the public may
request the Tree Committee to pull an item for discussion. The public may
comment on any and all items on the Consent Agenda within the three-minute
time limit.
3.a.CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES - OCTOBER 10, 2022 TREE
COMMITTEE MINUTES
5
Recommendation:
To approve the Tree Committee Special Meeting Minutes of October 10,
2022.
4.TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION
4.a.439 BRANCH STREET TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION 11
Recommendation:
Review a Tree Removal Application to remove one (1) Ash tree located
at 439 Branch Street.
4.b.64 LA ENTRADA STREET TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION 27
Recommendation:
Review a Tree Removal Application to remove one (1) Canary Island
Date Palm tree located at 64 La Entrada Street.
4.c.977 BLUEBELL WAY TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION 49
Recommendation:
Review a Tree Removal Application to remove one (1) Redwood tree
located at 977 Bluebell Way.
5.TREE REMOVAL APPEALS
Any person aggrieved by an act or determination of the authorized approving
authority exercising the authority herein granted shall have the right to appeal
the decision of the authorized approving authority as set forth in Section
12.24.180 of the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code. Appeals received by
the City Clerk within ten calendar days from the date of determination or act
shall cause the director to withhold tree removal permits and any permits for
construction or demolition actively relying on the subject tree removal until the
appeal is heard and a decision is reached.
5.a.1124 GEORGE STREET TREE REMOVAL APPEAL 67
Recommendation:
Review a Tree Removal Appeal of the City Arborist's decision to allow
removal of one (1) Redwood tree located at 1124 George Street.
6.NEW BUSINESS
6.a.SECOND REVIEW OF THE PROPOSED STREET TREE LIST FOR
THE 2022 ENGINEERING STANDARDS UPDATE
91
Recommendation:
Perform the second review of the proposed Master Street Tree List and
provide feedback to staff for the 2022 City Engineering Standards
Update.
7.COMMENT AND DISCUSSION
7.a.ARBORIST REPORT
Receive a brief update from Acting City Arborist Anthony Whipple.
8.ADJOURNMENT
The Tree Committee will hold a Special Meeting on December 5, 2022 at 5:30
p.m. in the Council Hearing Room at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis
Obispo. The Regular Meeting on November 28, 2022 will be canceled.
LISTENING ASSISTIVE DEVICES are available -- see the Clerk
The City of San Luis Obispo wishes to make all of its public meetings accessible
to the public. Upon request, this agenda will be made available in appropriate
alternative formats to persons with disabilities. Any person with a disability who
requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in a meeting
should direct such request to the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 781-7100 at least
48 hours before the meeting, if possible. Telecommunications Device for the
Deaf (805) 781-7410.
Agenda related writings or documents provided to the Tree Committee are
available for public inspection on the City’s website:
https://www.slocity.org/government/mayor-and-city-council/agendas-and-
minutes. Meeting video recordings can be found on the City’s website:
http://opengov.slocity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=61087&dbid=0&repo=CityCl
erk
1
Tree Committee Special Meeting Minutes
October 10, 2022, 5:30 p.m.
Council Hearing Room, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo
Tree Committee
Members Present:
Member Alan Bate, Member Emily Rosten, Member Sadie
Weller, Vice Chair Elizabeth Lucas, Chair Daniel Canella
Tree Committee
Members Absent:
Member Henry Bonifas
City Staff Present: Acting City Arborist Anthony Whipple, Deputy City Clerk Megan
Wilbanks
_____________________________________________________________________
1. CALL TO ORDER
A Special Meeting of the San Luis Obispo Tree Committee was called to order on
October 10, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Hearing Room at City Hall, 990
Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, by Chair Canella.
2. PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Public Comment:
Will Powers
--End of Public Comment--
3. CONSENT
3.a CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES - JULY 25, 2022 TREE COMMITTEE
MINUTES
Motion By Member Rosten
Second By Vice Chair Lucas
To approve the Tree Committee Minutes of July 25, 2022.
Ayes (5): Member Bate, Member Rosten, Member Weller, Vice Chair
Lucas, and Chair Canella
Absent (1): Member Bonifas
CARRIED (5 to 0)
Page 5 of 97
2
Chair Canella reordered the agenda to hear the Tree Removal Appeals first (Items 5a
and 5b), then the Tree Removal Application (Item 4a). The m inutes have been
reordered to reflect this change, but the original numbering remains the same.
5. TREE REMOVAL APPEALS
5.a 56 CHUPARROSA DRIVE TREE REMOVAL APPEAL
Acting City Arborist Anthony Whipple presented the staff report and
responded to Commission inquiries.
The Appellants, Robert and Debbie Soto, provided a brief overview of the
project and responded to questions raised.
Chair Canella opened the Public Hearing
Public Comments:
Will Powers
--End of Public Comment--
Chair Canella closed the Public Hearing
Motion By Vice Chair Lucas
Second By Member Weller
The Tree Committee approved the appeal to allow removal of one (1)
Magnolia grandiflora tree and required the Appellants to replace the tree
with (2) two 24-inch box trees on the site.
Ayes (5): Member Bate, Member Rosten, Member Weller, Vice Chair
Lucas, and Chair Canella
Absent (1): Member Bonifas
CARRIED (5 to 0)
5.b 905 BLUEBELL WAY TREE REMOVAL APPEAL
Acting City Arborist Anthony Whipple presented the staff report and
responded to Commission inquiries.
The Appellant, Steven Long, provided a brief overview of the project and
responded to questions raised.
Page 6 of 97
3
Chair Canella opened the Public Hearing
Public Comments:
Will Powers
Darline Serrano
Lura Gann
Ben Parker
--End of Public Comment--
Chair Canella closed the Public Hearing
Motion By Member Bate
Second By Member Rosten
The Tree Committee denied the appeal and upheld the City Arborist's
decision to deny removal of four (4) London Plane (Plantus x acerifolia)
trees. The Appellant is encouraged to collaborate with the Summerhill
Garden Homeowners Association on ways to mitigate root intrusion
without removing the trees.
Ayes (5): Member Bate, Member Rosten, Member Weller, Vice Chair
Lucas, and Chair Canella
Absent (1): Member Bonifas
CARRIED (5 to 0)
4. TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION
4.a 1422 MONTEREY ST. (ARCH-0020-2022) REVIEW OF THE
PROPOSED REMOVAL OF 54 TREES AND REPLANTING OF 54
TREES. TREE REMOVALS ARE PROPOSED TO FACILITATE A
MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT CONSISTING OF 106 AFFORDABLE
UNITS AND UP TO 4,366 SQUARE FEET OF COMMERCIAL SPACE
Member Weller announced that she would be recusing from this item as her
residence resides within 500-feet of the project site, then she exited the room.
Housing Coordinator Kyle Bell presented the staff report and responded to
Commission inquiries.
Applicant representatives Jake Minnick and David Gibbs with RRM Design
Group and Scott Smith and Jim Rendler with HASLO provided a brief
overview of the project and responded to questions raised.
Page 7 of 97
4
Chair Canella opened the Public Hearing
Public Comments:
Will Powers
David Brodie
Teresa Trejo
--End of Public Comment--
Chair Canella closed the Public Hearing
Motion By Vice Chair Lucas
Second By Chair Canella
The Tree Committee finds the proposed tree removal and compensatory
planting plan as part of the 1422 Monterey Mixed -Use Affordable & Senior
Housing project consistent with the Tree Regulations and forwards the
following recommendations to the Planning Commission:
The applicant shall preserve and protect trees #14 and #34.
The applicant shall review the project design to consider the
possibility of modifying the retaining wall along the west side of the
property to retain trees #24 and #25.
The final project plans shall ensure that 50% of the replacement
trees must be of a size of at least 36-inch box, and the remaining
50% must be at least 24-inch box in size. The project plans shall
provide at least 25% of the replacement trees with a minimum
height of 10-feet.
Ayes (3): Member Rosten, Vice Chair Lucas, and Chair Canella
Noes (1): Member Bate
Recused (1): Member Weller
Absent (1): Member Bonifas
CARRIED (3 to 1)
Page 8 of 97
5
6. COMMENT AND DISCUSSION
6.a ARBORIST REPORT
Acting City Arborist Anthony Whipple provided the following update of
upcoming projects and activities in the Tree Division:
The Urban Forestry Division received approval to hire a Contract
employee for a 12-month term; their duties will entail small tree
maintenance and watering.
Acting City Arborist Anthony Whipple signed a 12-month contract to
continue serving as the City Arborist.
Tentatively scheduled for the January 10, 2023 City Council
Meeting, is a Study Session to review the Urban Forestry Program.
The Urban Forestry team will host a booth at the Farmers Market
on November 3, 2022 to promote the upcoming Arbor Day
celebration.
Arbor Day celebration will take place on November 5, 2022 in
Mitchell Park, San Luis Obispo, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. For
more information, visit the Arbor Day web page:
https://www.slocity.org/government/department-directory/public-
works/trees-and-urban-forestry/arbor-day
7. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:57 p.m. The next Regular Meeting of the Tree
Committee is scheduled for October 24, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Hearing
Room at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
_________________________
APPROVED BY TREE COMMITTEE: XX/XX/2022
Page 9 of 97
Page 10 of 97
TREE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE: October 13, 2022
TO: Tree Committee Members
FROM: Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
SUBJECT: Tree Removal Application SR# 12496
This tree removal application has been reviewed by Tree Committee in April 2022. The
Tree Committee requested more information from the applicant regarding foundation
damage, and the applicant has responded stating they are unable to supply the requested
documentation. After receiving this correspondence (Attachment D), the application was
added to the next available Tree Committee Meeting for a final determination.
On October 12, 2022, I posted one (1) Ash tree at 439 Branch Street in response to Tree
Removal Application SR#12496. The removal of the mentioned application was submitted
based on:
San Luis Municipal Code 12.24.090.E.3.
E. 3. Tree removal requests based on property owner convenience shall be
subject to tree committee review in accordance with the process set forth in
subsection (F)(2) of this section, the relevant additional application
requirements set forth in subsection (D)(2) of this section, and the criteria
set forth in subsection G of this section
ATTACHMENTS
A - Tree Inspection Report
B - Proof of Posting
C - Tree Removal Application
D - 439 Branch St. Correspondence
Meeting Date: 10/24/2022
Item Number: 4a
Time Estimate: 15 minutes
Page 11 of 97
Page 12 of 97
Tree Removal Inspection Report
TO: Jeremy Lowney
FROM: Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
SUBJECT: Removal Application SR#12496
On Date: April 11th, 2022, I Posted a Public Notice for a Tree Committee hearing for a
tree(s) located at address 439 Branch Street. The signage was placed on south street in
response to tree removal application SR#12496. The removal of the mentioned application
was submitted based on:
San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.24.090 (E) 3
E. Criteria and Process for Non-Construction Related Tree Removal Application
Determinations Related to Tree Health or Hazard Mitigation or Property Owner
Convenience (Refer to Subsection G of This Section for Criteria for Construction Tree
Removal Determinations).
E. 3. Tree removal requests based on property owner convenience shall be subject to tree
committee review in accordance with the process set forth in subsection (F)(2) of this
section, the relevant additional application requirements set forth in subsection (D)(2) of this
section, and the criteria set forth in subsection G of this section.
F. 2. For all tree removal requests related to ministerial development permits, other than as
specified in subsection (F)(1) of this section, the tree committee shall review and make a
recommendation on the tree removal application to the community development director
based on the criteria in subsections G and J of this section. The director shall consider the
recommendation of the tree committee, as well as the consistency of the tree removal
application with other city development policies and standards applicable to the site, and
shall either approve, conditionally approve, or deny the tree removal request, subject to
appeal as set forth in Section 12.24.180.
The Subject tree Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), The tree committee shall review and
make a recommendation on the tree removal application to the Community Development
Director. authorized by the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, Title 12, Tree
Regulations
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021 awhipple@slocity.org
Public Works - Urban Forestry
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
805.781.7220
slocity.org
Page 13 of 97
Page 14 of 97
Page 15 of 97
Page 16 of 97
Page 17 of 97
Page 18 of 97
Page 19 of 97
Page 20 of 97
Page 21 of 97
Page 22 of 97
Hi Bart and Stephanie,
I appreciate the update. As you know, this Tree Removal Application was continued at the direction of
the Tree Committee, with the request that the applicant submit documentation supporting the alleged
foundation damage on the residence. At your request, I will include this item to the October Tree
Committee agenda and add your September 6, 2022, correspondence below as new material. Please
let me know if you have any questions, and you will receive a notification in the mail prior to the October
meeting with the necessary details.
Let me know if you have any questions
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple
City Arborist
Public Works
Urban Forest Services
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 -7314
E awhipple@slocity.org
T 805.781.7021
C 805.431.0398
From: Stephanie Schwan
Sent: Tuesday, September 6, 2022 12:25 PM
To: Whipple, Anthony <awhipple@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 439 Branch Tree Removal Application.
Good afternoon,
I’m sorry it has taken us so long to get back to you. I just wanted to let you know that we have decided not to
get a report from anyone to show root damage or the presence of roots near o r under the foundation. It was
too costly to hire someone to do that and we can’t put the money out on it at this time. We don’t have the
equipment and are not physically able to do it ourselves due to health issues. We both have back problems.
We are hoping that the report presented by Jeremy Lowney at the meeting we last attended will suffice. He is
an expert in his field and has stated in his report that root damage is inevitable. If it’s not there now, it’s just a
matter of time before that happens. As we stated before, the property owner, Betty Aten has never properly
maintained that tree. It’s only been recently that she had the tree trimmed.
Please let us know what you decide and we can go from there. We just want to go on record stating that we w ill
not be held responsible for any damage to property or person if this tree is allowed to remain in place. Thank
you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Bart and Stephanie Schwan
Page 23 of 97
On May 19, 2022, at 7:37 AM, Whipple, Anthony <awhipple@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Stephanie,
Looks like we had a typo in the last email. Sounds like we need to give you a little more time to gather
more information. I suggest we reschedule until the June 27th tree committee meeting.
Let me know if you have any questions
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple
Acting City Arborist
Public Works
Urban Forest Services
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 -7314
E awhipple@slocity.org
T 805.781.7021
C 805.431.0398
From: Stephanie Schwan
Sent: Wednesday, May 18, 2022 8:12 PM
To: Whipple, Anthony <awhipple@slocity.org>
Cc: Jeremy Lowney; Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 439 Branch Tree Removal Application.
Hi Anthony,
We did contact Betty as you mentioned. We have pictures of fallen branches. However, we were not able to get
anyone out yet to pressure wash around the house to check roots. Therefore, we do not have pictures of that.
If we need to reschedule until next month, please let us know. Thank you for reaching out.
Sincerely,
Bart and Steph Schwan
Page 24 of 97
On May 18, 2022, at 5:13 PM, Whipple, Anthony <awhipple@slocity.org> wrote:
Hello Bart and Jeremy,
I wanted to remind you that at our last Tree Committee hearing, our committee members requested
some additional information.
1. A statement from the property owner of 430 south street Betty Atten.
I did receive a phone call and a statement from the property owner of tree located 430 South
St. Betty Atten and I added it to the Agenda Correspondence.
2. Some form of photo documentation or report showing the root vs foundation issues, (mentioned
at the meeting).
As the only item on the agenda, we would need the new information by Thursday at 5:00pm and if we
can’t make the deadline, staff might request that we cancel and reschedule the Tree Committee hearing
to accommodate the Tree Committee’s inquiry.
Let me know if you have any questions
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple
Acting City Arborist
Public Works
Urban Forest Services
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 -7314
E awhipple@slocity.org
T 805.781.7021
C 805.431.0398
Page 25 of 97
Page 26 of 97
TREE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE: October 13, 2022
TO: Tree Committee Members
FROM: Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
SUBJECT: Tree Removal Application SR# 12994
On October 10, 2022, I posted one (1) Canary Island Date Palm tree at 64 La Entrada
Street in response to Tree Removal Application SR#12994. The removal of the mentioned
application was submitted based on:
San Luis Municipal Code 12.24.090.E.3.
E. 3. Tree removal requests based on property owner convenience shall be
subject to tree committee review in accordance with the process set forth in
subsection (F)(2) of this section, the relevant additional application
requirements set forth in subsection (D)(2) of this section, and the criteria
set forth in subsection G of this section
ATTACHMENTS
A - Tree Inspection Report
B - Proof of Posting
C - Tree Removal Application
D - Tree Photo
Meeting Date: 10/24/2022
Item Number: 4b
Time Estimate: 15 minutes
Page 27 of 97
Page 28 of 97
Tree Removal Inspection Report
TO: RPM Central Coast
FROM: Anthony Whipple, City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
SUBJECT: Removal Application SR#12994
On October 10th, 2022, I Posted a Public Notice for a Tree Committee hearing for a tree(s)
located at address 64 La Entrada Street in response to tree removal application SR#12994.
The removal of the mentioned application was submitted based on:
San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.24.090 (E) 3
E. 3. Tree removal requests based on property owner convenience shall be subject to
tree committee review in accordance with the process set forth in subsection (F)(2) of this
section, the relevant additional application requirements set forth in subsection (D)(2) of this
section, and the criteria set forth in subsection G of this section.
F. 2. For all tree removal requests related to ministerial development permits, other
than as specified in subsection (F)(1) of this section, the tree committee shall review and
make a recommendation on the tree removal application to the community development
director based on the criteria in subsections G and J of this section. The director shall
consider the recommendation of the tree committee, as well as the consistency of the tree
removal application with other city development policies and standards applicable to the
site, and shall either approve, conditionally approve, or deny the tree removal request,
subject to appeal as set forth in Section 12.24.180.
The Subject tree Phoenix canariensis (Canary Island Date Palm) The tree committee shall
review and make a recommendation on the tree removal application to the Community
Development Director. authorized by the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, Title 12,
Tree Regulations
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor (805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
Public Works - Urban Forestry
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
805.781.7220
slocity.org
Page 29 of 97
Page 30 of 97
Page 31 of 97
Page 32 of 97
Page 33 of 97
Page 34 of 97
Page 35 of 97
Page 36 of 97
Page 37 of 97
Page 38 of 97
Page 39 of 97
Page 40 of 97
Page 41 of 97
Page 42 of 97
Page 43 of 97
Page 44 of 97
Page 45 of 97
Page 46 of 97
Page 47 of 97
Page 48 of 97
TREE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE: October 13, 2022
TO: Tree Committee Members
FROM: Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
SUBJECT: Tree Removal Application SR# 12967
On October 12, 2022, I posted one (1) Redwood tree at 977 Bluebell W ay in response to
Tree Removal Application SR#12967. The removal of the mentioned application was
submitted based on:
San Luis Municipal Code 12.24.090.E.3.
E. 3. Tree removal requests based on property owner convenience sh all be
subject to tree committee review in accordance with the process set forth in
subsection (F)(2) of this section, the relevant additional application
requirements set forth in subsection (D)(2) of this section, and the criteria
set forth in subsection G of this section
ATTACHMENTS
A - Tree Inspection Report
B - Proof of Posting
C - Tree Removal Application
Meeting Date: 10/24/2022
Item Number: 4c
Time Estimate: 15 minutes
Page 49 of 97
Page 50 of 97
Tree Removal Inspection Report
TO: Rachel Cohen and Ben Erchul
FROM: Anthony Whipple, City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
SUBJECT: Removal Application SR#12967
On October 12th, 2022, I Posted a Public Notice for a Tree Committee hearing for a tree(s)
located at address 977 Bluebell Way in response to tree removal application SR#12967.
The removal of the mentioned application was submitted based on:
San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.24.090 (E) 3
E. 3. Tree removal requests based on property owner convenience shall be subject to
tree committee review in accordance with the process set forth in subsection (F)(2) of this
section, the relevant additional application requirements set forth in subsection (D)(2) of this
section, and the criteria set forth in subsection G of this section.
F. 2. For all tree removal requests related to ministerial development permits, other
than as specified in subsection (F)(1) of this section, the tree committee shall review and
make a recommendation on the tree removal application to the community development
director based on the criteria in subsections G and J of this section. The director shall
consider the recommendation of the tree committee, as well as the consistency of the tree
removal application with other city development policies and standards applicable to the
site, and shall either approve, conditionally approve, or deny the tree removal request,
subject to appeal as set forth in Section 12.24.180.
The Subject tree Coast Redwood (Sequoia simpervirens) The tree committee shall review
and make a recommendation on the tree removal application to the Community
Development Director. authorized by the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, Title 12,
Tree Regulations
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor (805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
Public Works - Urban Forestry
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
805.781.7220
slocity.org
Page 51 of 97
Page 52 of 97
Page 53 of 97
Page 54 of 97
TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION
RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, DEVELOPMENT
Follow Non-Construction Tree Removal Criteria and Process here (SLOMC 12.24.090.E)
Follow Construction Tree Removal Criteria and Process here (SLOMC 12.24.090.F)
Owner: Applicant:
Address: Address:
City: Zip: City: Zip:
Phone: Phone:
Email: Email:
Address of Tree(s): Number of trees applying to remove? ____
Tree Species:
Reason:
Is this removal a City Tree?____ YES_____ NO_____ UNKNOWN Dog in yard?___ YES____ NO
Is this property governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA)?___ YES____ NO If YES, please provide
HOA Board Approved Meeting minutes authorizing tree removal(s) with your tree removal application.
1 Please include a photo log that clearly shows the trees requested for removal. All
Tree(s) must be uniquely identified by a number and a ribbon or an identifier wrapped
around the truck in the photo and prior to inspection
2 Please include a replanting plan in accordance with Section 12.24.090(J) of the City’s
Municipal Code. A minimum of one new tree shall be planted for each tree authorized to be
removed on the same property (on site) or two new trees shall be planted for each tree
authorized to be removed when planted on a different property or within the public right-of-
way (off site).
, retaining wall, hardscape and fencing.
and Ben Erchul
Page 55 of 97
Page 2
Tree Removal Decisions as outlined in Section 12.24.090 of the City’s Municipal Code
SELECT ONE CRITERIA FROM BELOW
SUPPORTING TREE REMOVAL APPLICATION DECISION MAKER APPEAL BODY
Imminent Hazard to Life or Property Section
12.24.090(E)(1)(a)
City Arborist No Appeal
Tree Health and Hazard Mitigation
Section 12.24.090(E)
City Arborist Tree Committee
Convenience Removal (Tree Committee makes
recommendation to Community Development
Director) 12.24.090(E)(3)
Community
Development Director
Planning Commission
City Council
Minor Ministerial Development Permit (removal for
residential or accessory construction on an R-1 or
R-2 lot) Section
City Arborist Community
Development Director
Criteria for Discretionary Permits Construction Tree
Removal Section 12.24.090(F)(3)
Community
Development Director
Planning Commission
City Council
Major Development / Tentative Tract Map/
Conditional Use Permit Section 12.24.090(F)(4)
Community
Development Director
City Council
Please include a check for $175.69 along with completed application & documentation.
Tree Removal applications may be submitted in person at 25 Prado Road at the City’s
Corporation Yard in SLO or mailed to:
City of San Luis Obispo
Public Works- Urban Forest Services
25 Prado Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
12.24.090(F)(1)
Pursuant to San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.24.180, any person aggrieved by an act or
determination of the authorized approving authority exercising the authority herein granted
shall have the right to appeal the decision of the authorized approving authority.
Appeals must be received by the city clerk within ten calendar days from the date of
determination or act shall cause the director to withhold tree removal permits and any
permits for construction or demolition activity relying on the subject tree removal until the
appeal is heard and a decision is reached.
The fee to appeal to the Tree Committee is $135.64
This tree removal application must be signed by the property owner or an Authorized Agent. I
declare under penalty of perjury that all the facts stated within this tree removal
application are true and correct.
Property Owner Signature: _________________________________ Date:___________
Applicant’s Signature: _____________________________________ Date:___________
Please make check payable to the City of San Luis Obispo $175.69 Check#: __________
9/2/2022
9/2/2022
1002Page 56 of 97
Tree Removal Request
977 Bluebell Way, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Owner / Applicant: Rachel Cohen and Ben Erchul
Site: Zoned R-2-SP (medium density residential)
Housing Type: Duplex condominium
Request: To remove a 24.5-inch diameter redwood tree
Location: 9 feet from the duplex; 18.5 feet from the public right of way
Background:
The duplex unit was constructed in 1989 and the redwood tree was planted as part of the landscape
(there are several redwoods within the neighborhood). The house was purchased by the applicant
in 2005. In 2018, the applicant completed an outdoor patio remodel and installed all new patio
pavers, garden beds and re-built an existing retaining wall.
Redwood Tree:
On July 11, 2022, the applicant hired Rodney Thurman, certified arborist with Heritage Trees
Consulting, to consult on the redwood. Mr. Thurman confirmed that the redwood tree was in good
health but noted that the tree was planted too close to the house. He also confirmed that the roots
were growing towards the foundation of the house.
Options Considered for the Tree:
The applicant discussed with Mr. Thurman what options there were regarding the care of the tree
and protecting the foundation of the duplex. Mr. Thurman noted that because the redwood tree was
planted so close to the residential structure, that unfortunately root pruning was not an option. Any
root pruning would be too close to the trunk of the tree and would destabilize it.
Damage:
Minimal damage has occurred. The photos below show: 1) retaining wall being lifted, 2) fence
being lifted, 3) see the roots under the faux grass (you can also feel the roots as you walk or run
your hands over the ground) and 4) cracks starting to form between pavers as they are being lifted
up.
According to Mr. Thurman, the redwood tree will continue to push the wall and fencing up. As
noted above, the whole yard was re-landscaped in 2018 and was all flat and smooth. Overall, the
damage is not extensive, yet. The applicant is most concerned about what cannot be seen and the
damage that may be occurring with the foundation, especially since the duplex is owned by two,
different private parties.
Tree Removal Request and Replanting Plan:
The applicant would really like to find a way to preserve the tree but after discussing options with
Mr. Thurman, removal appears to be the only way to prevent damage to the foundation of the
duplex. The applicant proposes to remove the tree and replant one 15-gallon tree in the grassy
parkway approximately 8 feet from the redwood’s current location. Section 12.24.090(J) of the
City’s Municipal Code states that minimum of one new tree shall be planted for each tree
authorized to be removed on the same property (on site) or two new trees shall be planted for each
Page 57 of 97
tree authorized to be removed when planted on a different property or within the public right-of-
way (off site). The proposed replanting is off-site and there is no room for two trees. Unfortunately,
on-site there is only space for a new tree to be planted where the existing redwood is as the
applicant has recently (1-3 years ago) planted mandarin and lime trees. Planting a new tree at the
same location as the redwood does not seem like a good idea. However, if feasible and a best
practice, the applicant would be open to planting in place.
The applicant asked Mr. Turman to recommend replacement trees. Below is a list of the
recommended tree species as options for replanting as they can tolerate irrigation from the lawn,
have low root disease, litter is minimal and have low root intrusion. They also can be somewhat
drought tolerant if lawn is removed at some point.
Chinese Pistache - Pistacia chinensis
Fatigiata Ginkgo - Ginkgo biloba 'Fastigiata'
Chinese Flame Tree - Koelereuteria bipinnata
Honey Locust - Gleditsia triacanthos
Brisbane Box - Lophostemon confertus
Hybrid Crape Myrtle – Lagerstromea ‘Muskogee’ / ‘Naches’ / ‘Tuscarora’
The applicant would be open to any direction or recommendations regarding the replanted tree
species.
Page 58 of 97
Figure 1: Retaining wall beginning to lift up and separate due to the
redwood tree
Page 59 of 97
Figure 2: Image of the damage to the fence
Page 60 of 97
Figure 3: Image showing the bumps the roots are now making in the faux lawn
Page 61 of 97
Figure 4: Image of the Redwood tree requested for removal
Page 62 of 97
Page 63 of 97
Page 64 of 97
Page 65 of 97
Page 66 of 97
City of San Luis Obispo, Council Memorandum
City of San Luis Obispo
Tree Committee Agenda Correspondence
DATE: October 18, 2022
TO: Tree Committee Members
FROM: Anthony Whipple, City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
SUBJECT: Removal Application SR#12813
On October 17, 2022, I received a phone call from the Shari Diekev, the property owner
of 1124 George Street. Ms. Diekev stated that they have not received additional
documentation from their Contractor/Engineer on the damage caused by the tree. Ms.
Diekey requested to have their scheduled Item 5a, 1124 George Street Appeal,
postponed until the December 5, 2022 Tree Committee Special Meeting.
Page 67 of 97
Page 68 of 97
TREE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE: October 13, 2022
TO: Tree Committee Members
FROM: Anthony Whipple, Acting City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021
awhipple@slocity.org
SUBJECT: Tree Removal Appeal of the Arborist’s decision to approve Tree
Removal Application SR# 12813
On August 5, 2022, I posted approval to remove one (1) Redwood tree at 1124 George
Street in response to Tree Removal Application SR#12813. The removal of the mentioned
application was submitted based on:
San Luis Municipal Code 12.24.090.E.1.
c. The tree’s roots are causing severe damage to public or private property,
and removing the tree is the only feasible way to eliminate the damage.
ATTACHMENTS
A - Tree Inspection Report
B - Proof of Posting
C - Tree Removal Application
D - 1124 George Appeal from Sara Hatley
E - 1124 George Appeal from Colleen Harbaugh
Meeting Date: 10/24/2022
Item Number: 5a
Time Estimate: 15 minutes
Page 69 of 97
Page 70 of 97
Tree Removal Inspection Report/ Permit
TO: Shari Diekev
FROM: Anthony Whipple, City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
SUBJECT: Removal Application SR#12813
On Date: August 5th, I inspected 1 Redwood tree(s) at 1124 George Street in response to
tree removal application SR#12813. The removal of the mentioned application was
submitted based on:
San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.24.090. (E)1
c. The tree’s roots are causing severe damage to public or private property, and removing
the tree is the only feasible way to eliminate the damage.
Upon inspection of the Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) tree and I APPROVE the tree
removal(s).
Replanting 24-inch box tree(s) off Master Tree list within 45 days of removal. Owner or
Applicant shall submit a photo taken after tree(s) are planted and mailed to Urban Forest
Services 25 Prado RD. San Luis Obispo CA 93401 or emailed to City Arborist
awhipple@slocity.org is a condition of this approval.
NOTE: All trees replanted shall be maintained as a condition of their approved tree
removal.
Thank you,
Anthony Whipple, City Arborist/Urban Forest Supervisor
(805) 781-7021 awhipple@slocity.org
Public Works - Urban Forestry
25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
805.781.7220
slocity.org
Page 71 of 97
Page 72 of 97
Page 73 of 97
Page 74 of 97
Page 75 of 97
Page 76 of 97
Page 77 of 97
Page 78 of 97
Page 79 of 97
Page 80 of 97
Page 81 of 97
Page 82 of 97
Page 83 of 97
Page 84 of 97
Page 85 of 97
Page 86 of 97
City of San Luis Obispo Finance
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 781-7124 www.slocity.org
Thank you for your payment.
Have a nice day!
Friday Aug 12 2022 10:53:33 AM
Clerk - Misc Revenue (CLERKREV)
TREE REMOVAL APPEAL- SARA HATLEY 125.71
__________________________________________
Total 125.71
Check 1051 125.71
Receipt #: finance-08122022-2
Cashier: Jacob Nunez
Page 87 of 97
Page 88 of 97
Page 89 of 97
Page 90 of 97
TREE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
SUBJECT: SECOND REVIEW OF THE PROPOSED MASTER STREET TREE LIST
FOR THE 2022 CITY ENGINEERING STANDARDS UPDATE
FROM: Anthony Whipple, City Arborist
Phone Number: (805) 781-7021
Email: awhipple@slocity.org
1.0 RECOMMENDATION
Review and discuss the proposed Master Street Tree List and provide feedback to staff
for the 2022 City Engineering Standards Update.
2.0 COMMITTEE PURVIEW
The Tree Committee’s role is to review the proposed Master Street Tree List and give
feedback to staff for future modifications to the Street Tree List within the City’s
Engineering Standards.
3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City updates its Engineering Standards every two years for use on development and
improvement projects within the City limits. The City Standards includes a Street Tree List
that is used for selection of required plantings.
As part of this process, the City Public Works Department updates the Standards when
changes are found to be beneficial to the improvement. As temperatures and drought
conditions increase within the City, there is a desire to ensure new tree plantings are
successful. To do so, the Master Street Tree list will need to be altered.
After review of the proposed list, staff would like feedback on proposed alterations to be
explored.
4.0 ATTACHMENTS
A - Updated Proposed City Street Tree List
Meeting Date: 10/24/2022
Item Number: 6a
Time Estimate: 15 minutes
Page 91 of 97
Page 92 of 97
All Trees for San Luis ObispoBotanical NameExisting City TreeNew Addition City TreePrivate yard okMULGA Acacia aneuraxBAILEY ACACIA Acacia baileyanax BLACKWOOD ACACIA Acacia melanoxylonxWEEPING ACACIA Acacia pendulaxSHOESTRING ACACIA Acacia stenophyllaxPINEAPPLE GUAVA Acca sellowianaxBIGLEAF MAPLE Acer macrophyllumx (native)BOX ELDER Acer negundoxEVERGREEN MAPLE Acer paxiixCALIFORNIA BUCKEYE Aesculus californicaxAFRICAN FERN PINE Afrocarpus falcatusxPEPPERMINT TREEAgonis flexuosaxSILK TREEAlbizia julibrissinxSYDNEY RED GUM Angophora costataxMARINA MADRONE Arbutus 'Marina'xKING PALM Archontophoenix cunninghamianaTC ?QUEENSLAND PITTOSPORUM Auranticarpa rhombifolia xHONG KONG ORCHID TREE Bauhinia x blakeanaxFLAME BOTTLE TREEBrachychiton acerifoliusxQUEENSLAND LACEBARK Brachychiton discolor xKURRAJONG Brachychiton populneusxMEXICAN BLUE PALM Brahea armataTC ?GUADALUPE PALM Brahea edulisTC ?PAPER MULBERRY Broussonetia papyriferaTC ?PINDO PALM Butia odorataTC ?LEMON BOTTLEBRUSH Callistemon citrinusxWEEPING BOTTLEBRUSH Callistemon viminalisxINCENSE CEDAR Calocedrus decurrens xCAPE CHESTNUT Calodendrum capensexGOLD MEDALLION TREE Cassia leptophyllaxRIVER SHE-OAK Casuarina cunninghamianaxBRAZILIAN CEDARWOOD Cedrela fissilisxCity of San Luis Obispo — Master Tree ListPage 93 of 97
All Trees for San Luis ObispoBotanical NameExisting City TreeNew Addition City TreePrivate yard okCity of San Luis Obispo — Master Tree ListATLAS CEDAR Cedrus atlanticaxDEODAR CEDAR Cedrus deodaraxFLOSS SILK TREE Ceiba speciosaxEUROPEAN HACKBERRY Celtis australisxNETLEAF HACKBERRY Celtis reticulataxCHINESE HACKBERRY Celtis sinensisxCAROB TREE Ceratonia siliquaxEASTERN REDBUD Cercis canadensisxWESTERN REDBUD Cercis occidentalisxMEDITERRANEAN FAN PALM Chamaerops humilisxDESERT WILLOW Chilopsis linearisxCHINESE FRINGE TREE Chionanthus retususxCAMPHOR TREE Cinnamomum camphoraxGHOST GUM Corymbia aparrerinjaxLEMON-SCENTED GUM Corymbia citriodoraxRED FLOWERING GUMCorymbia ficifoliaxSPOTTED GUM Corymbia maculataxSMOKE TREE Cotinus coggygriaxCARROT WOOD Cupaniopsis anacardioidesxINDIAN ROSEWOOD Dalbergia sissooxHOP BUSH OR A'ALI'I Dodonaea viscosaxTRIANGLE PALM Dypsis decaryiTC ?TEXAS EBONY Ebenopsis ebanoxJAPANESE BLUEBERRY TREE Elaeocarpus sylvestrisxBRONZE LOQUAT Eriobotrya deflexaxJAPANESE LOQUAT Eriobotrya japonicaxSOUTH AFRICAN CORAL TREE Erythrina caffraxNAKED CORAL TREEErythrina coralloidesxCOCKSPUR CORAL TREE Erythrina crista-gallixSILVER DOLLAR TREE Eucalyptus cinereaxRED-CAP GUM Eucalyptus erythrocorysxWHITE IRONBARK Eucalyptus leucoxylonxPage 94 of 97
All Trees for San Luis ObispoBotanical NameExisting City TreeNew Addition City TreePrivate yard okCity of San Luis Obispo — Master Tree ListNICHOL'S WILLOWLEAFED PEPPERMINT Eucalyptus nicholiixSILVER DOLLAR GUM Eucalyptus polyanthemosxRED IRONBARK Eucalyptus sideroxylonxSWAMP MALLEE Eucalyptus spathulataxCORAL GUM Eucalyptus torquataxEDIBLE FIG Ficus caricaxINDIAN LAUREL FIG OR CHINESE BANYAN Ficus microcarpaxRUSTY-LEAF FIG Ficus rubiginosaxAUSTRALIAN WILLOW Geijera parvifloraxMAIDENHAIR TREE Ginkgo bilobaxSILK OAK TREE Grevillea robustaxGOLDEN TRUMPET TREE Handroanthus chrysotrichusxPINK TRUMPET TREE Handroanthus heptaphyllusxSOUTH AFRICAN WILD PLUM Harpephyllum caffrumTC ?TECATE CYPRESS Hesperocyparis forbesiixMONTEREY CYPRESS Hesperocyparis macrocarpaxTOYON Heteromeles arbutifoliaxSWEETSHADE Hymenosporum flavumxJACARANDAJacaranda mimosifoliaxCHINESE FLAME TREE Koelreuteria bipinnataxGOLDENRAIN TREE Koelreuteria paniculata xPRIMROSE TREE Lagunaria patersoniaxSWEET BAY Laurus nobilisxAUSTRALIAN TEA TREE Leptospermum laevigatumxBRISBANE BOX Lophostemon confertusxCATALINA IRONWOOD Lyonothamnus floribundus subsp. AspleniifoliusxSOUTHERN MAGNOLIA Magnolia grandifloraxMAYTEN TREE Maytenus boariaxHEATH MELALEUCA Melaleuca ericifoliaxFLAXLEAF PAPERBARK Melaleuca linariifoliaxPINK MELALEUCA Melaleuca nesophilaxPAPERBARK OR CAJEPUT TREE Melaleuca quinquenerviaxPage 95 of 97
All Trees for San Luis ObispoBotanical NameExisting City TreeNew Addition City TreePrivate yard okCity of San Luis Obispo — Master Tree ListPRICKLY MELALEUCA Melaleuca styphelioidesxCHINABERRY Melia azedarachxDAWN REDWOOD Metasequoia glyptostroboidesxNEW ZEALAND CHRISTMAS TREE Metrosideros excelsa xSWEET MICHELIA Michelia doltsopaxOLIVE TREE Olea europaeaxDESERT MUSEUM PALO VERDE Parkinsonia x 'Desert Museum'xCANARY ISLAND DATE PALM Phoenix canariensisTC ?PYGMY DATE PALM Phoenix roebeleniiTC ?FRASER PHOTINIA Photinia x fraserixCANARY ISLAND PINE Pinus canariensisxMONDELL PINE Pinus eldaricaxALEPPO PINE Pinus halepensisxITALIAN STONE PINE Pinus pineaxTORREY PINE Pinus torreyanaxCHINESE PISTACHE Pistacia chinensisxMEXICAN SYCAMORE Platanus mexicanaxCALIFORNIA SYCAMORE Platanus racemosaxYEW PINE Podocarpus macrophyllusxHOLLYLEAF CHERRY Prunus ilicifoliaxEVERGREEN PEAR Pyrus kawakamiixCOAST LIVE OAK Quercus agrifoliaxENGELMANN OAK Quercus engelmanniixHUNGARIAN OAK Quercus frainettoxHOLLY OAK Quercus ilexxVALLEY OAK Quercus lobataxBUR OAK Quercus macrocarpaxCORK OAK Quercus suberxISLAND OAK Quercus tomentellaxSOUTHERN LIVE OAK Quercus virginianaxINTERIOR LIVE OAK Quercus wislizenixSILVERLEAF OAK Quercus¬†hypoleucoidesxPage 96 of 97
All Trees for San Luis ObispoBotanical NameExisting City TreeNew Addition City TreePrivate yard okCity of San Luis Obispo — Master Tree ListPEPPER TREE Schinus mollexAFRICAN SUMAC Searsia lanceaxFIREWHEEL TREE Stenocarpus sinuatusxQUEEN PALMSyagrus romanzoffianaTC ?BRUSH CHERRYSyzygium australexTIPU TREE Tipuana tipuxWINDMILL PALM Trachycarpus fortuneiTC ?WATER GUM Tristaniopsis laurinaxCHINESE ELM Ulmus parvifoliaxCALIFORNIA LAUREL Umbellularia californicaxCALIFORNIA FAN PALM Washingtonia filiferaTC ?MEXICAN FAN PALM Washingtonia robustaTC ?CHITALPAx Chitalpa tashkentensisxSHINY XYLOSMA Xylosma congestaxPage 97 of 97