OPPOSITION to Tree Ordinance Revisions (Council File No. 03-1450)

We, the undersigned, OPPOSE the Oak Tree Ordinance changes as stated in the PROH-LA letter submitted to Ms. Paula Daniels, Los Angeles Board of Commissioners, Board of Public Works, on November 30, 2005 (Council File No. 03-1450 Tree Ordinance Revisions). A copy of this letter can be viewed at www.PROH-LA.com.

PROH-LA, a Coalition of Los Angeles City Stakeholders and Professionals advocating for responsible growth, education, and the protection of hillside property owner's rights is strongly opposed to the Oak Tree Ordinance changes (Council File No. 03-1450 and 03-1459-S1) stipulated per LAMC Section No. 46.00. PROH-LA understands the importance of the protection of healthy trees in our communities. However, property owners (vacant land owners and home owners as well) are already over-regulated by the LA Municipal Codes.

Among the many reasons for our strong opposition are:

The City has provided no scientific basis for the inclusion of the proposed Western Sycamore, California Bay and the Southern California Black Walnut as native or preserved trees similar in status to the Oak Trees.
The proposal will subject property owners to 48 additional trees over a period of time without notification of such changes.
The City provided no public comment opportunities to individuals or organizations, as specified by the City Charter.
The City entity responsible to regulate this measure has not been identified nor have the procedures been delineated for implementation.
The proposed changes are in conflict with the City of Los Angeles Fire Department weed abatement procedures.
There remain conflicts of interest issues at the LA City Community Forest Advisory Committee level where the proposed Oak Tree Ordinance revision originated and continues to be advocated for.

We strongly recommend a NO vote regarding the proposed changes to the existing Oak Tree Ordinance.