Explanation
Background:
Since 2003, millions of ash trees have been killed by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), a devastating invasive insect, which claims the life of otherwise healthy, mature ash trees in as little as one year. These funds will aid in response and recovery of the urban forests from the EAB infestation. Removing hazardous and soon-to-be hazardous trees from public streets and restoring lost tree canopy cover are the primary objectives of this grant program.
Emergency action is requested to ensure the grant application can be submitted by the deadline.
Fiscal Impact: N/A
Title
To authorize and direct the Director of Recreation and Parks to apply to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry for federal grant funds available to communities in Franklin County, Ohio impacted now, or in the future, by the Emerald Ash Borer for the removal of and replacement of publicly-owned Ash trees by the City of Columbus; and to declare an emergency.
Body
WHEREAS, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry is accepting applications for grant funding to address the Emerald Ash Borer infestation in Franklin County; and
WHEREAS, the Recreation and Parks Department wishes to apply for said grant for the removal and replacement of infested trees; and
WHEREAS, an emergency exists in the usual daily operation of the Recreation and Parks Department in that it is immediately necessary to submit said grant application for the preservation of public health, peace, property and safety; NOW, THEREFORE
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That the Director of Recreation and Parks be and he is hereby authorized and directed to submit a grant application to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry for the Emerald Ash Borer Program.
SECTION 2. That this ordinance authorizes an application only and is not a commitment to expend City funds.
SECTION...
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