Currently in Mt Vernon, NY, trees are loved - but not protected. In a Comprehensive Plan for the city, which was developed starting in 2008 to 2011, tree preservation was set as one of the goals for this community of tree lined streets and tree filled properties. Putting aside the question, for now, of where things stand now with that plan, we believe we can all be united on the specific issue of the preservation of trees on municipal and private property within the city of Mount Vernon, NY. We acknowledge with thanks the planting of new trees on city property which was accomplished under the past couple of administrations and know we can all work together on this matter which is of great interest and concern to all citizens of the greater community of Mount Vernon. The municipal code as it pertains to trees has not been updated since 1957. We ask that all those in city government relevant to this matter act now and with urgency on creating and/or updating and passing a Tree Preservation ordinance for the city of Mount Vernon, NY.

We ask for an ordinance that provides for, in part:, but is not limited to:

the preservation of trees for the greater community and for future generations, while balancing rights of property owners; this has been achieved in neighboring Westchester communities such as Ossining and Greenburgh, to name just two.

public notice and public comment on the proposed removal of any tree on private or municipal property,

public notice, after the fact if necessary, that a tree or trees has/have been removed or will be removed, due to an emergency, such as in the aftermath of a storm.

specifics on documentation required for all of permits necessary in seeking tree removal approval (such as proof of disease);  and on restoring the site of a tree removal, including, but not limited to, new trees being planted in place of what has been approved for removal, with the recognition that new trees, while welcome, cannot make up for the loss of mature trees.

a statement that the City of Mount Vernon, NY, recognizes legally and officially that trees aid the community by, among other things, preventing soil erosion and flooding naturally, reducing municipal costs in dealing with these issues ; reducing air pollution; acting as natural noise barriers; .providing shade in summer, reducing air conditioning costs for individuals and businesses as well as naturally cooling public spaces.; adding aesthetic and, in some cases, historic value and increasing property values.

This petition has been brought to you by Mount Vernon New York Loves Trees

Thank you for your time.