Interim tree ordinance moved to April 21 council agenda

The Edmonds City Council met on Tuesday to deliberate on an interim ordinance proposed by Councilmember Susan Paine, aimed at preventing the removal of landmark trees on private property. The council opted to defer a decision on the ordinance until April 21, allowing time for community discussions and possible amendments. The proposed regulation seeks to protect trees with a diameter of 30 inches or more at breast height, while providing exemptions for trees already in the permitting process or deemed hazardous. Community members expressed strong support for the ordinance, with Georgina Armstrong emphasizing the importance of majestic trees for the city's beauty. In contrast, Janelle Cass warned that hastily implemented policies could lead to unintended consequences, citing instances of preemptive tree removals due to fear of fines.

The council also received updates on city code revisions for utility regulations, aimed at streamlining processes and enhancing compliance. Furthermore, Acting Police Chief Rod Sniffen reported on the effectiveness of newly installed red-light cameras, revealing significant traffic violations within the initial operating period. The combination of these discussions highlights the council's commitment to balancing community values and regulatory measures.