Council focuses on administrative tasks in brief meeting Tuesday

During a brief meeting on September 24, the Edmonds City Council confirmed Mike Clugston as the permanent Planning and Development Director and held a public hearing regarding minor amendments to the tree code. Eight residents attended, with three providing comments that highlighted concerns over the proposed changes, especially regarding the management of larger trees. The amendments aim to clarify the net ecological gain, provide alternative determination procedures for tree replacements, and adjust maintenance bond requirements. Residents urged the council to wait for an urban forest planner before making significant changes to tree regulations. The council will vote on the amendments on October 7, as community members worry that the changes may weaken protections for landmark trees.

Arlene Williams and other residents emphasized the need to prioritize larger trees in the code revisions. The council also approved administrative language changes to contracting and purchasing policies during the meeting. Local stakeholders expressed the need for careful consideration to align the tree code with the city’s broader urban forest management and climate action plans.