Interoffice Memorandum
DATE: September 28, 2026
TO: Mayor Jerry L. Demings and County Commissioners
THROUGH: N/A
FROM: Tanya Wilson, AICP, Director Planning, Environmental, and Development Services Department
CONTACT: Alan Marshall, Environmental Policy Coordinator
PHONE: (407) 836-5884
DIVISION: N/A
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Tree Replacement Program.
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PROJECT: The work session will provide background, an overview of tree planting programs, an update from several key divisions on improvements, new programs, upcoming actions, efforts for 2027, and seek feedback from the Board.
PURPOSE: On September 30, 2025, staff provided a presentation to the Board outlining countywide efforts relating to the management and preservation of trees. This presentation was made in response to a Commissioner’s Report initiated by District 1 Commissioner, Nicole Wilson, which expressed concerns about the removal of trees in county rights-of-way and other impacts to trees resulting from county operations.
The presentation provided background on County plans relating to the management of trees, such as the Sustainable Operations and Resilience Action Plan (SORAP), the current and proposed Comprehensive Plans, and other various studies and certifications associated with management of tree canopy. Staff provided the results of a baseline assessment conducted of various county divisions showing whether tree canopy coverage was being adequately maintained (removals vs. plantings) within our current business practices.
Additionally, staff outlined process changes and work practices that are being proposed or actively updated within several business areas that will reduce unnecessary tree impacts, both in county capital improvement projects and in management of public rights-of-way. Staff was directed by Mayor Demings to return in 2026 and provide an update.
This item is for informational purposes only; no action is required.
BUDGET: N/A