The most significant topic of discussion was the Arbor Day celebration scheduled for January 17, 2024, at St. John’s River State College. The committee confirmed a live oak tree donation from F’s Landscaping for the ceremony. Due to ongoing construction at the college, it was agreed to keep the tree in its container until a final planting site was determined, with college representatives assuring they would care for the tree in the interim. The committee collaborated on the event logistics, maintaining the previous year’s program structure, and proposed potential speakers, including a college representative or Commissioner Jones. They also considered involving the college’s tree committee as additional backup for speaking roles.

Challenges in locating the traditional Arbor Day flag from Public Works were noted, prompting discussions on alternative options, such as using a smaller flag if necessary. Arrangements for the symbolic “golden shovels” used during the ceremony were also discussed. Emphasis was placed on coordinating with Public Works staff regarding the tree’s placement.

In a broader context, the committee addressed the potential donation of saplings by the city’s forester, Blake, though doubts about the saplings’ size and condition were raised. The donation was eventually confirmed to be from Pin’s Landscape, clarifying previous communication issues. This discussion segued into funding for tree planting initiatives across multiple municipalities, with a proposal to increase the yearly budget from $500 to support planting approximately 12 trees per city.

The committee also revisited the tree protection ordinance, celebrating past progress in closing a loophole that allowed residential properties to bypass the ordinance. Recent modifications were adopted by the city commission. However, further improvements based on former Planning Director Lisa Walsh’s recommendations were considered, which included establishing procedures for ordinance administration and advocating for tree planting.

Some members questioned the committee’s role, debating whether it should focus more on advocacy or remain advisory. They acknowledged their power to recommend ordinance changes to city staff, similar to the planning board’s function. Commissioner Jones suggested the committee take time to evaluate Walsh’s recommendations and emphasized the advisory nature of their role, likening it to the airport committee that advises without mandating actions.

The resignation of the vice chair was another point of discussion, leading to conversations about the committee’s composition and potential restructuring. Traditionally, the vice chair role was filled by a representative from Keep Putnam Beautiful, offering access to resources and grants. The committee considered proposing ordinance changes for automatic appointments based on position. The decision on selecting a new vice chair was deferred to a later date, concluding the discussion on this matter.