Lakewood City Council Considers New Tree Advisory Group

LAKEWOOD, OH — Lakewood City Council will soon vote on establishing a group to preserve and grow the city's tree canopy. The new group would be called the Tree Advisory & Education Board.

The vote will be held September 16. The new group would work with the city on its forestry practices and educate residents on how to take care of trees. Officials hope the Tree Advisory & Education Board will serve the city's trees for years to come.

“Council is now accepting applications from residents who are passionate and knowledgeable about trees,” Council President Sam O'Leary said. “I am personally very excited to meet those who are willing to step forward for this opportunity."

If the Tree Advisory Board is enacted in September, Lakewood City Council will appoint three members to the group and Mayor Mike Summers will appoint two additional members.

Anyone interested in joining the new board will need to apply by submitting a cover letter and resume to the Lakewood Clerk of Council. City officials said special consideration will be given to applicants with a background and expertise in forestry, or related fields.

In 2012, Lakewood City Council pulled together a temporary Tree Task Force, which issued 19 recommendations for the city to follow. One of the recommendations was to create a permanent tree-focused organization.

“I am very appreciative of these individuals for staying involved and always advocating for our trees. I am pleased that Council is now poised to act on this important recommendation,” Councilperson Tristan Rader said.

The new Tree Advisory & Education Board will be a permanent body of volunteers, city officials said.