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06-08-16 Street Tree Committee MinutesKALISPELL STREET TREE COMMISSION MEETING HELD June 8, 2016 Present: Members: Andrea Davidson, Bette Albright, Terry Richmond, Tony Nelson and Dave Jones Guest: Rick Moore Staff. Fred Bicha The meeting was officially called to order at 4:00 pm by Andrea Davidson. Agenda Topics: Public Comment Arbor Day Close Out Tree Articles 50/50 Tree Planting Program Tree Cycle Brainstorming Misc. Business Public Comment There was no public comment. Old Business Arbor Day Close Out: Fred reported that sponsorships was $2,475.00 and grant revenue from DNRC was $750 with expenditures being approximately $2,300 for a positive of approximately $900. Fred explained this money does go back into the current urban forestry budget, not to be confused with the general fund. Fred told the group that based on the groups determination, he could see that the $900 could be spent on what they decided. The group held discussion on how to spend the money, with the majority stating they would like to see the money spent on trees. Brainstorming included the possibility of adult volunteers planting additional trees at next year's Arbor Day celebration, planting at different park locations around town and then joining the main celebration for lunch. Andrea reminded the group that they are an advisory group, so there would not be a vote on the decision, however they would instead suggest to Fred how surplus sponsorship money would be spent. Fred reminded the group to keep in mind that budgets are developed twelve months in advance, and he needs plenty of lead time to include their suggestions into a budget. Fred provided an example of the proposed FY 16/17 budget including additional funding in the tree planting line, due to the board suggestions to increase money spent towards planting trees. Members agreed that because sponsors donated for Arbor Day, funds should be used for Arbor Day trees. Terry said next year he will tell sponsors any money left over we would earmark for the 50/50 boulevard tree planting match. Fred verified that all the sponsors who gave $250 or more got their logos on the t-shirts, with two sponsors names listed at bottom of t-shirt who provided lesser amount donations. Fred asked for input and comments regarding things the group might do differently at the next Arbor Day celebration. Dave asked for feedback on the tarps he had bought for backpacks and lunches and if this worked well. Everyone agreed the tarps worked very well, they would just spread them out more next year. It was suggested that more cones and signage stating bus loading might be needed in future years so the public better understands. Bette mentioned that the high school volunteers really would have liked hot chocolate, as they did not want coffee. Members noted that it was a bit chaotic at the start as all the buses arrived at once. Fred suggested the buses arrive earlier so kids can get to stations on time. It was suggested that possibly the high school volunteers could attend the pre -work meeting, or possibly be provided more information in advance especially notifying them which class they are with, to help facilitate the unloading and directing of students. Tony suggested the possibility of talking to the school district about staggering the arrival of the buses ten minutes apart. Members agreed that as a whole the day went extremely well and the event was very successful. Tree Articles - Andrea stated she's read Dave's Right Tree Right Place article and that is really good and ready to go to print. Terry suggested some slight revisions the yellow highlighted section, through the creation of a bulleted list. Andrea stated she likes that the article is applicable to all areas and not limited to trees planted in the city. Current Business 50150 Tree Planting Program: Fred reported that there was approximately $4,000 budgeted for the 50/50 tree program in the current budget. Fred told members 13 trees were planted in fall 2015 and 11 in spring 2016 for a total of 24 trees which utilized all of the funds. Fred replied when questioned that the article in the paper did not result in a huge impact, however it could have been what prompted the 11 spring plantings. Discussion and debate ensued regarding the application and the pros and cons of the current city website design and location of the online application, species list, etc. Tree Cycle Brainstorming: Tony distributed copies of a Tree Cycle task list he compiled, however reminded members he was not on the board or involved last year and would need their assistance to edit and/or correct the information as necessary. The group reviewed the list and discussed due dates for various tasks. Tony suggested that members determine and solidify the route in the next few months. Andrea recommended the group have brochures on the parks office rack, as well as the Chamber of Commerce at all time promoting the route. Fred said there are brochures on the rack currently that map out last year's route. Terry proposed tying the tree route into the existing historical house tour. The Conrad Mansion was suggested as a possible stop due to the trees on site. Tony asked if a subcommittee should be formed to determine the route, and volunteered to be on the committee to determine tree stops. Fred, Dave, and Terry volunteered to be on the committee. Tony suggested a goal of having the route be decided on by the end of July. Members discussed the date of the ride, penciling in October 2, with a backup of October 9, 2016. Promotion of the event was discussed with ideas including: promoting at Kalispell Brewery and Sweet Peaks as these are places people congregate on foot and bike, utilizing community calendars, radio spots, media blasts, posters and possible sponsorships. Barb was suggested as a possible media lead should she join the board. Members suggested subcommittee meetings be held monthly and will report back on the regular meeting. Tony stated that the logistics (water break stop, PA system, sign in's) should be planned and brochure ready by September 23rd. Andrea suggested the group consider the future of the event and what the mission is. Terry suggested that posters be put at all the schools including FVCC. Fred suggested that members think about sponsorships, however not in a monetary manner but more of a partnership, involving them in the event. Dave volunteered to be the logistics lead and Fred volunteered brochure lead. Misc.: Bette said goodbye to all, stating she has enjoyed all her years on the board and she will help next year with the Arbor Day school district contacts. There was no other business and the meeting adjourned at 5:02 pm. Next meeting scheduled for July 13, 2016. Minutes approved unanimously by the Street Tree Committee July 13, 2016.