A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE USE OF FUNDS FROM THE MIAMI BEACH TREE PRESERVATION TRUST FUND TO PURCHASE AND DONATE SEVENTY-FIVE (75) TREES TO THE NORMANDY FOUNTAIN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION FOR A TREE GIVEAWAY.

The Urban Forestry Master Plan is structured around the goal to increase of the City’s urban canopy from 17% to 22% coverage by the year 2040. The clearest path to reach this goal is by utilizing a multi-pronged approach that includes public and private property. The main strategies for installing more trees are through the Urban Forestry Division’s permitting process for tree mitigation and GO Bond reforestation projects. Community outreach is another important strategy that encourages tree plantings in private properties. Utilizing the Tree Trust Fund for tree giveaways helps to increase community outreach and education and provide trees to residents.

The Miami Beach Tree Preservation Trust Fund was created for the purpose of accepting and disbursing the replacement fees paid to the City of Miami Beach as part of tree work permits and any other monies deposited with the Environment and Sustainability Department for tree preservation purposes. Per Sec. 46-65. (4) (d) The trust funds must be used to obtain trees, landscaping, irrigation systems, and any other items or materials necessary and proper for the preservation, maintenance, relocation or restoration of trees and the urban forest on any publicly owned land or publicly accessible parcels in Miami Beach. Further, the trust funds may also be expended for similar programs approved by the City Commission.

The 2022 Community Survey results indicate that 71% of residents would like to see more trees in their neighborhood.

The Administration recommends the adoption of the Resolution. The tree giveaway is an additional tool to increase the urban canopy of the City of Miami Beach, which will help reach our goal of 22% urban canopy by 2040.