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Protecting Miami's Urban Forest – City of Miami Proposed Tree Ordinance AmendmentsThe City of Miami is currently reviewing proposed amendments to its Tree Ordinance (Chapter 17 “Environmental Preservation” and Chapter 62, Article X ). As professionals dedicated to the design, planning, and management of the built and natural environments, we have identified several critical concerns within these proposed revisions that warrant our attention and expertise. These concerns include provisions related to tree removal by Commission resolution without permits, expansion of buildable areas impacting existing trees, and exempting single-family residences from crucial permitting requirements. We believe these proposed changes present potential challenges to the long-term health and resilience of Miami’s urban forest and could negatively impact ecosystem services, community well-being, and the city’s overall environmental quality. We have drafted a sample letter to the City Commission outlining these concerns and, importantly, offering our expertise as Landscape Architects to assist in developing a robust and effective tree protection ordinance. We invite you to join this important initiative by signing the attached letter and sending it to the City commission or providing public comment before January 23rd. |