From the Desk of Former Mayor Malinda Miles

It has been two years since I decided to remove myself from the political scene in Mount Rainier, MD, Prince George's County, and the State of Maryland. Holding the lofty position of Mayor was such a great honor, but as the years flew by, I realized that it was time to do something else -- get a life.! I did, and still continue to provide resources to the residents through The Front Porch Ministries (TFPM). Real people pass through The Front Porch Ministries weekly. LIFE is good.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Community Forum to Discuss Revised Tree Ordinance

This is a reminder that on Tuesday, January 21, 2014, there will be a community forum discussing recently passed legislation concerning the removal or trimming of trees on private property. The purpose of this legislation is summarized on the Ordinance as follows:

The purpose of this chapter is to protect, preserve, and promote Mount Rainier’s urban forest, which is part of a larger ecosystem that contributes significantly to the control of air, noise, and visual pollution; moderates climate extremes; promotes sound energy conservation; and has significant aesthetic value affecting property values and the community’s quality of life. Because the City's urban forest is located in the Anacostia River and Chesapeake Bay watersheds, its absorption of stormwater supports the biological and hydrological integrity of these watersheds. Regulation of actions affecting the urban forest provides mutual benefits to City residents and property owners.

The legislation also establishes criteria including but not limited to the requirement and regulations for:

· A Tree Impact Assessment

· Requirements to obtain the services of a roadside tree expert prior to the pruning and/or removal of trees

· Public Property – injury to vegetation

· Establishing a tree commission to regulate the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees

· Protection of trees on City Property, City rights of way

· Regulating the permitting and pruning of street trees

· Permit application, approval or denial

The Forum will focus on educating the public concerning these provisions which will become effective July 1, 2014 followed by a question and answer session.

Following adjournment of the Forum, the Mayor and City Council will vote to go into regular work session.

Thanks,

Jeannelle Branson Wallace

City Manager

City of Mount Rainier

One Municipal Place

Mount Rainier, Maryland 20712

(301) 985-6585 (Direct)

(240) 508-3595 (Cellular)

Mayor Malinda Miles

As a long-time resident of Mount Rainier and a homeowner, it is important to me that municipal government be inclusive of all of its residents. It is equally important that information be communicated through all possible channel so that residents can get involved. It is also important for residents to volunteer and serve on committees, commissions, boards and task forces. I truly believe that municipal government is the government closes to the people, and as such should be easily accessible. This BLOG is another effort to reach out to the residents of Mount Rainier.