Title
Draft Resolution - Reoccurring Operating Budget Items for FY21 (B)
Explanation
A resolution of the City of Gainesville Tree Advisory Board; relating to the Operating Budget for the Urban Forestry group within the Public Works Department for the Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2020 and ending September 30, 2021. By making certain adjustments to the Operating Budget to include, the use of the Tree Mitigation Fund consistent with the Board’s understanding of eligible spending.
The Tree Mitigation Fund (TMF) receives monies from developers and neighbors for permitted tree removals. The Land Development Code specifies these funds are to be used for tree planting and establishment on City owned properties - right-of-ways and parks; and for purchase of conservation lands that benefit Gainesville’s urban forest. The Tree Advisory Board oversees the expenditures from the TMF and it has historically approved transfers of funds to the Public Works Urban Forestry Division for the above expenditures.
These expenditures from the TMF are a top priority item that tremendously benefits the urban forest and every neighbor in Gainesville, Florida. The fund should continue to be stewarded responsibly and expended in an adequate manner with direction from the Tree Advisory Board.
Fiscal Note
The TMF currently has a balance of over 3.4 million dollars. Expenditures from this fund have historically and dramatically failed to keep up with receipts. The Urban Forestry Division would like to responsibly utilize this fund. These expenditures have no impact on City of Gainesville general revenues.
Recommendation
The Tree Advisory Board 1) review resolution draft; 2) revise as necessary; and 3) approve draft language.