2022/02/09 Council Agenda Packet

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS' - OF SNOHOMISH COUNTY Objective NE 12.B Manage the urban forest resource as a part of overall green infrastructure for maximum community benefit and climate change mitigation. Policy NE 12.B.1 Improve the green infrastructure functioning by updating codes and administrative rules to consider the contribution of healthy trees to air and water quality, stormwater management, and other ecosystem services. Policy NE 12.B.2 Review and update development codes to create incentives to protect natural areas that provide significant functions and values in addition to those areas already protected under critical area regulations. Policy NE 12.B.3 Control invasive species, which are destructive to forest health, and eradicate them where possible. Objective NE 12.0 Initiate and promote appropriate urban tree management practices in all urban areas to improve the quality of life. Policy NE 12.C.1 Review administrative rules and development standards, adopting changes, where appropriate, to ensure that new development follows appropriate tree management practices. Update these rules and requirements to create more livable conditions by incentivizing trees as visual amenities, providers of environmental services and drivers of economic development. Policy NE 12.C.2 To help retain stormwater, reduce erosion, buffer water bodies from polluting runoff, and clean the air of airborne pollutants, the County should adopt rules and regulations to ensure protection of understory vegetation. Policy NE 12.C.3 Departments with responsibility for the urban forest should share standardized maintenance practices to increase overall consistency in tree maintenance, resulting in better tree health and longevity. Objective NE 12.D Promote stewardship, community education and partnership opportunities so the public and other potential partners are more likely to invest their energy and resources to help achieve the vision of a thriving urban forest.