San Marino Applies for $83K Grant to Replace Lost Windstorm Trees

Due to unprecedented tree loss from the , $2.5 million in grant funds are available for tree planting in the Fifth Supervisorial District, according to a San Marino City report about the grant application.



At Wednesday’s City Council meeting, the San Marino City Council approved submission of an application for $83,016 in county grant funds, to cover tree replacement, tree supplies, planting labor, site preparation and post planting maintenance.

The City proposes matching 10 percent—or $9,224—of the grant funds being applied for, making the total cost of the proposed tree project $92,240.

See a breakdown of how the City would use the tree grant in the City table attached to this article.

San Marino Assistant City Manager Lucy Garcia estimates San Marino could find out whether or not they have received tree replacement grant funds by July, but added that the grant application does not specify when cities will hear back about grants.

The San Marino City Council plans to discuss the grant at a

“We’ll say, ‘Thanks for offering this grant opportunity and we could use the help,’” City Manager Matt Ballantyne told Patch, referencing the informal meeting.

Per the City report, San Marino must follow these requirements in order to apply for tree replacement county grant funds:

• Cities may apply for up to $100,000 for trees lost in parks open space and other public land (including parkways in commercial and residential areas)
• Communities that prove they have the greatest need to replace trees earn priority
• Matching funds, in-kind donations and volunteer labor for tree planting are encouraged
• An application must be submitted to LA County Regional Park and Open Space District by May 31, 2012
• Tree planting must be completed by Dec. 31, 2014.

Do you think the City should apply for a grant to replace trees lost in the windstorm? Where have you seen the worst tree damage in the City?