Title
Memorials in Parks Policy Briefing
Recommended Action
Move to approve the updated draft for Memorial Trees and Benches in Parks to an official policy.
Report
Issue:
Whether to authorize staff to proceed with finalization of the Memorial Trees and Benches in Parks policy.
Staff Contact:
John Wolfe, Parks Maintenance Supervisor, Parks Maintenance, 360.753.8229
Presenter(s):
John Wolfe, Parks Maintenance Supervisor
Background and Analysis:
Jonathon Turlove, the former Director of Parks Maintenance and Planning, created a draft for the Memorial Benches and Trees Policy approximately five years ago, and Parks Maintenance has been working off the draft since its inception. Staff have identified some barriers in implementing the draft policy and would like to revise the policy to better serve the community and park system.
Climate Analysis:
Planting trees in parks helps to offset carbon emissions, improve air quality, cool urban heating, enhance public health, capture storm water, increase property values, and enhance the aesthetics of parks and the neighborhoods they are located in.
Equity Analysis:
One of the changes recommended in the updated draft policy is to lower the price of Memorial Trees with Plaques, and Memorial Benches to make the program more accessible to more members of our community.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
N/A
Options:
1) Recommend the proposed Memorial Tree and Bench Program as presented by staff.
2) Recommend changes to the proposed Memorial Tree and Bench Program.
3) Do not recommend approval of the proposed Memorial Tree and Bench Program.
Financial Impact:
This program is fully funded by Community Member donations to the Memorial Trees and Benches they commission.
Attachments:
Proposed Memorial Tree and Bench Program by John Wolfe
Proposed Memorial Bench and Tree Program by Jonathon Turlove