Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a grant agreement with Green Columbus for trees that will be planted as a part of the Earth Day celebrations in 2017.
Trees are an important part of every community. They reduce the heat island effect that is caused by pavement and commercial spaces. They reduce runoff after storms by absorbing rainwater and reduce erosion by stabilizing soil. Trees bring energy savings year-round and reduce noise. They benefit residents’ mental and physical wellbeing and are crucial for wildlife habitat.
In 2015, then Mayor Coleman and then-City Council President Ginther launched the Branch Out Columbus initiative to increase the city’s tree canopy from 22% to 27% and committed to the goal of planting 300,000 trees by 2020. Branch Out Columbus relies, in part, on volunteers to plant trees throughout the community, and with their help, the city has already gained 21,500 trees.
Since 2007, Green Columbus and its partners have organized Central Ohio’s largest Earth Day celebration to promote sustainable living and engage the community in tackling environmental challenges. Last year, volunteer groups in coordination with Green Columbus’ Earth Day celebration, planted over 10,000 trees in the City. This year, they plan on planting over 8,000 trees.
Emergency action is requested in order to have funding available for the purchase and distribution of trees in advance of Earth Day on April 22.
Fiscal Impact: Funding is available for use in the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund.
Title
To authorize the Director of Public Utilities to enter into a grant agreement with Green Columbus; to authorize an appropriation and expenditure of $11,000.00 within the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund; and to declare an emergency. ($11,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS, Green Columbus and its partners have a proud tradition of engaging the Central Ohio community on environmental issues and sustainable ...
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