SS Item A-4 — Beverly Hills City Council, June 3, 2025

STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: June 3, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor & City Council
From: Daren Grilley, Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer Ken Pfalzgraf, City Arborist
Subject: Willaman Drive Street Tree Master Plan
Attachments: 1. April 28, 2025 Staff Report for May 8, 2025 Public Works Commission Meeting

2. Notice to Willaman Drive Property Owners

INTRODUCTION
Staff recommends that City Council review the proposed action to phase the removal of the 70 Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive and replace them with 36-inch box Crape Myrtle trees following the criteria described herein. The recommendation is supported by a majority of owners of affected properties, as well as the Public Works Commission.

DISCUSSION
In July 2024, a majority of the property owners on North Willaman Drive petitioned the City to remove the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees on the street and replace them with another tree type. The petition letter referenced three specific concerns including that the trees have failed to establish uniformly in a way that a street tree planting should, that there are ongoing insect infestations, and that the trees leak sap profusely. During a meeting in August 2024, several property owners on South Willaman Drive advised staff that they wished to join the North Willaman property owners in the request to replace the Eucalyptus trees.

On November 14, 2024, the Public Works Commission was presented with a technical report on the history and performance of the Willaman Drive Red Ironbark trees. The Commission supported the staff recommendation to initiate a Street Tree Master Plan project to include an informational “on the street” meeting with residents of Willaman Drive.

The on-the-street meeting was held on January 19, 2025 and was attended by approximately 20% of the property owners. Staff reviewed the historic performance data on the Eucalyptus trees and showed samples of three tree types and two planting themes that could be considered in the replacement of the Eucalyptus. At the end of the meeting, the vast majority of attendees agreed that the Eucalyptus trees should be replaced.

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Meeting Date: June 3, 2025

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At the February 13, 2025 Public Works Commission meeting, the Commissioners supported the staff recommendation to ballot property owners of Willaman Drive for the purpose of selecting a planting theme and the tree type(s) that would serve as replacements for the existing Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees. Staff was directed to report back only if the minimum 51% or more response requirement was met.

On May 8, 2025, the Public Works Commission was presented with a summary of the ballot results (Attachment 1). Based on a 61% response rate, the majority of responding property owners preferred a uniform planting of Crape Myrtle trees. Based on the preferences of a majority of the respondents, staff recommended the removal and replacement of the Willaman Drive Red Ironbark trees using the following priority criteria:
 A tree site is currently vacant.
 A tree is standing dead or exhibiting significant decline (e.g. dieback in large limbs).
 A tree is leaning or exhibits other structural concerns as identified by a City employee holding International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist and ISA Tree Risk Assessment certifications.
 A tree has work records showing several out-of-routine trim cycle issues (e.g. windstorm issues, limb breaks).
 A tree is profusely leaking sap.
 A tree is defoliated by the activity of insect pests.  A property owner requests, in writing, that their parkway tree is replaced regardless of the absence of any of the aforementioned criteria.

In summary, the replacement of the Red Ironbark trees on Willaman Drive was supported by a majority of property owners, who prefer a uniform planting of Crape Myrtle trees.

PUBLIC OUTREACH
The following public outreach was conducted for this project:
 Prior to the property owners’ petition to the City requesting a change of the trees on the street, staff worked with several property owners to address insect and sap leaking issues using beneficial insect releases and strategic pruning to provide relief.
 Staff introduced the petition from the North Willaman Drive property owners to the Public Works Commission during the November 2024 meeting. A technical report on the historic performance of the Eucalyptus trees was presented to the Commission at this meeting. Several petitioners addressed the Commissioners at the meeting by providing comments in person or by email to be read into the record.
 Staff held an on-site meeting with residents of Willaman Drive during January 2025. Ongoing issues with the current Eucalyptus trees were discussed along with the presentation of three potential replacement tree types and two planting themes. The meeting was attended by the Public Works Street Tree Master Plan ad hoc.

Meeting Date: June 3, 2025

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 At the February 2025 meeting, the Public Works Commission supported a staff recommendation to ballot Willaman Drive property owners to establish the level of support for a replacement project, to include the choice of a replacement tree(s) and planting theme by majority vote.
 The results of the balloting of Willaman Drive were reported to the Public Works Commission at the May 2025 meeting and were the basis for the staff recommendation to replace the Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive.  All property owners on Willaman Drive were advised, in advance, of any action described above. In addition, all property owners on Willaman Drive were advised of the pending recommendation to City Council on June 3, 2025 (Attachment 2).

FISCAL IMPACT
The cost to remove the 70 Red Ironbark trees on Willaman Drive is approximately $95,500. The cost to install the 36-inch box size Crape Myrtle trees is approximately $105,000, making the total cost of the project approximately $200,500. Funds are available in the approved CIP 0089 Street Tree Removal and Replacement.

RECOMMENDATION
The proposed action to remove the 70 Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive and replace them with 36-inch box Crape Mrytle trees is supported by a majority of owners of affected properties, as well as the Public Works Commission. This report is for discussion purposes and will be used to inform a consent item in the Formal Session of June 3, 2025.

Shana Epstein,
Director of Public Works
Approved By
Attachment 1

CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

MEMORANDUM
TO: Public Works Commission
FROM: Ken Pfalzgraf, City Arborist
DATE: April 28, 2025
SUBJECT: Willaman Drive Street Tree Master Plan
ATTACHMENTS: 1. November 2024 Willaman staff report to PWC

2. February 2025 Willaman staff report to PWC

3. Willaman replacement tree ballot package

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Public Works Commission:

1. Accept the staff recommendation to replace the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive with the Crape Mrytle trees, which were selected through a majority vote by property owners on Willaman Drive.

2. Support the staff recommendation for City Council consideration and approval.

INTRODUCTION
At this time, staff seeks support from the Public Works Commission for a Street Tree Master Plan project to replace the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive. This project was initiated by a petition from property owners on the street and meets the City’s procedural requirements for the replacement of a tree type that has a questionable long-term performance record.

BACKGROUND
In response to widespread concerns, expressed in the form of a petition from residents of Willaman Drive, the Commission discussed the historic performance of the Red Ironbark trees on the street at the November 2024 Commission meeting (see attached report). Concerns included that the Red Ironbark has failed to thrive as a street tree since first being installed in 1997, compounded by ongoing insect infestations and sap leakage, both of which present quality of life challenges to those that live on the street.

The Commission supported a staff recommendation that a Street Tree Master Plan (STMP) phase, which includes the identification of a possible replacement trees, be developed for Willaman Drive. Staff suggested that the process begin with an “On the Street” meeting with residents so that problematic conditions could be observed, validated and discussed firsthand, and that possible replacement tree candidates could be seen and evaluated by residents.

The “On the Street” meeting was held on Willaman Drive on January 19, 2025. The meeting was attended by 18 Willaman residents, who represented approximately 20% of the addresses on the street. At the conclusion of the meeting, the vast majority of attendees agreed that the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees should be replaced and that the replacement tree options and planting theme should be presented in a ballot to all property owners on Willaman Drive to select a planting theme and replacement tree type(s) by majority vote.

Staff reported the results of the on the street meeting to the Public Works Commission at the February 2025 meeting (see attached staff report). At that time, the Commission supported the staff recommendation to ballot residents of the street to select:
• A planting theme for the replacement. An alternating theme of two tree types or a uniform planting of one tree type as depicted in the figures below:
• And, a replacement tree selected from the following options:
o Australian Willow (Geijera parviflora), an evergreen tree o Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), a deciduous flowering tree o Holly Oak (Quercus ilex), an evergreen tree
As per the requirements of past City Council approved Street Tree Master Plan projects, the Commission directed staff to return with a recommendation if and when the response rate exceeded 50% of the addresses on the street. A copy of the ballot package is attached.

DISCUSSION
Ballot results: Several mailings were necessary to reach the more than 50% ballot response rate for the selection of the replacement tree and planting theme on Willaman Drive. Staff received several requests for ballots to be provided to non-responsive addresses identified by residents looking to maximize the response rate on the street. As of the date of this report, the response rate was 61% (43 of 71 total addresses), with the results as follows:
• 28 addresses did not respond
• 91% desired to replace the existing Eucalyptus trees (39 of 43 responding addresses) • 84% preferred a uniform planting of a single tree type over an alternating planting of 2 tree types (36 of 43 responding addresses)
Uniform single tree type planting
Alternating evergreen/flowering tree planting
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• The responding addresses preferred the Crape Myrtle (44%), followed by the Australian Willow (21%). The Holly Oak received the fewest votes (7%).

In summary, based on a 61% response rate, the majority of responding addresses preferred a uniform planting of Crape Myrtle trees.

Project Implementation: Staff has identified a source of 36-inch box Crape Myrtle trees that are available in the quantity and quality required to complete the project. The project will be completed by the City’s contractor of record, following the technical specifications of the project.

Funding for the project will be through the current allotment of Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds budgeted for the removal and planting of City trees. Staff recommends that the replacement of the trees is phased using the following criteria • A tree site is currently vacant.
• A tree is standing dead or exhibiting significant decline (e.g. dieback in large limbs). • A tree is leaning or exhibits other structural concerns as identified by a City employee holding an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessment certifications.
• A tree has work records showing several out-of-routine trim cycle issues (e.g. windstorm issues, limb breaks).
• A tree is profusely leaking sap.
• A tree is defoliated by the activity of insect pests. • A property owner requests, in writing, that their parkway tree is replaced regardless of the absence of any of the aforementioned criteria.

In summary, the minimum response rate required for a staff recommendation to the Commission for a Street Tree Master Plan project for Willaman Drive has been met. The responding property owners chose a uniform planting of Crape Myrtle trees. Staff has recommended a phased approach of tree replacement, following a clearly defined criteria that will reduce risk, while proving relief to the ongoing concerns over insect infestation, sapping and overall poor performance that initiated a desire to have the Willaman trees replaced.

NEXT STEPS
With the Commission’s support, staff will calendar an informational report for an upcoming City Council Study Session that will be noticed to the public. With City Council support, the project will proceed, using the priorities defined within this report.

FISCAL IMPACT
The cost to remove and replace the 70 Red Ironbark trees on Willaman Drive is approximately $95,500. The cost to install the 36-inch box size Crape Myrtle trees is approximately $105,000, making the total cost of the project approximately $200,500. Staff is anticipating that the total project cost could be spread out over the next three fiscal years. The current tree contract provides a five-year stability in the unit prices used to estimate the total project cost provided.

The project will be prioritized within, and funded though, the existing CIP allotment for removal and replacement of trees through the Street Tree Master Plan program, to include the replacement of additional Ficus trees in the future as conditions necessitate. 3 of 3

CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

MEMORANDUM
TO: Public Works Commission
FROM: Ken Pfalzgraf, City Arborist
DATE: November 14, 2024
SUBJECT:

ATTACHMENT:

Willaman Eucalyptus Street Tree Master Plan

1. Meeting Notice to Properties on Willaman Drive

INTRODUCTION
At this time, staff seeks input from the Commission in development of a Street Tree Master Plan phase to address ongoing problems with the Red Ironbark (Eucalyptus sideroxylon) trees on Willaman Drive. Some residents of the street have submitted a petition to have the tree replaced, citing ongoing insect infestations, leaking sap and overall performance of the trees as reasons to consider the outright replacement of the trees. Work to date includes an on the street meeting with the Street Tree Master Plan ad hoc in early October 2024.

BACKGROUND
History of trees on Willaman Drive: the early history of the Beverly Hills street trees is summarized in a 1963 City document that outlines the Street Tree Plans of 1944, 1957 and 1963. The 1963 document includes a listing of Arizona Ash (Fraxinus velutina) trees on Willaman Drive.

Over the years, the City’s Arizona Ash trees began to experience annual infestations of the Wooley Aphid (Prociphilus fraxinifolii), which could not be controlled by spraying, injection or though the release of beneficial predatory insects. At the same time, similar aphid insect infestation problems were being experienced with the City’s American Elm (Ulmus americana) trees. A study of the problem determined that, in addition to not being ideally suitable for the warm summer climate of Southern California, the large numbers and close geographical proximities of the Elm and Ash plantings were actually favoring large pest insect population explosions of insects that quickly spread from street to street.

In summary, planting large numbers of trees that are native to areas which typically experience cold weather serves to take away one of nature’s best insect control methodswinter.

To address the Ash and Elm problems, the City developed the Street Tree Master Plan of 1996, which looked to increase tree type (i.e. species) diversity in 3000 trees on 28 streets, from two to nine types of trees. Willaman Drive was one of the streets covered in the 1996 Street Tree Master Plan. Through the typical process, which included a series 2 of 4
of informational meetings and the choice of a replacement tree by majority vote, the Red Ironbark was chosen as a replacement for the Arizona Ash on Willaman Drive. The plan provided for a phased replacement of the Arizona Ash trees, which occurred at a rate of about ten percent of the trees each year. Removal of the Arizona Ash trees on Willaman began in 1997 and concluded in fiscal year 2007/2008.

In summary, the Red Ironbark trees on Willaman Drive were planted as part of the Street Tree Master Plan of 1996, which sought to use species diversity to limit the intensity of widespread and ongoing pest insect issues in 3,000 trees on 28 streets in the City. The oldest Red Ironbark trees on Willman Drive are currently 27 years old.

DISCUSSION
Maintenance records: the long-term performance of the Red Ironbark trees on Willaman Drive has been characterized in the following through a review of nearly 3,000 work records, using the City’s tree inventory work records:
• There are 69 total City parkway tree sites on Willaman Drive; 42 on North Willaman and 27 on South Willaman.
• Since the inventory system was initiated in late 2000, the following services have been provided by the City:
o 905 trimming related services delivered by way of grid trimming of all trees on the street, young tree train pruning, out of cycle service requests or storm related responses to address broken or uprooted trees.
o 1805 supplemental watering services, which consists mainly of establishment watering of newly planted trees.
• A significant number of the original plantings of Eucalyptus trees have required replacement, one or more times. On N. Willaman, approximately 17 percent of the original Eucalyptus plantings have been replaced one time, while seven percent of the sites have been replaced more than once; in some cases up to three different times. On S. Willaman approximately 37 percent of the original Eucalyptus plantings have been replaced one time, while 19 percent of the sites have been replaced more than once; in some cases up to three different times. • The tree sites that have required multiple replacements are associated in the records with responses to high wind events, suggesting that, when young, the tree is particularly susceptible to limb breakage and windthrow of the whole tree. • Red Ironbark is increasingly unavailable in the larger sizes the City prefers to plant.

On numerous occasions, the City has had to wait to fill vacant sites or even plant a smaller size (i.e. 24 inch box) when the preferred 36 inch box size was not available.
• Records show that trees that require replacement typically fail to thrive in the first ten years following planting.
• Young Red Ironbark trees typically require additional attention to the maintenance of staking as they tend to be tall and wispy.
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Tree characteristics: Native to Australia, the Red Ironbark is touted to be a durable tree that is solid, strong and drought tolerant. Older specimens in the City (Lomitas between N. Elm and N. Maple drives) are in excess of 60 feet tall and 35 feet wide.

The Red Ironbark develops the strength of its trunk and limbs by exuding a red colored sap, known as kino. Wherever trees flex or experience mechanical strain, kino is released and is absorbed by the bark. As trees age, the kino perfused bark hardens and is cemented into place. The leaking of kino in young trees is what gives the trees their name in age: Kino has been used commercially in medical treatments, tanning and dyeing. Unfortunately, dripping kino can prove problematic in a street tree planting as it drips down onto pedestrians, cars, and infrastructure, especially during the heat of summer.

Insect pests: While the literature notes that the Red Ironbark is low in its susceptibility to the Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetle (Trachymela sloanei), the trees on Willaman Drive suggest the opposite. As is being experienced regionally, there have been annual infestations of the this pest, resulting in sticky residue and even dying insects dripping from the trees. Regular releases of the general beneficial predator insect Green Lacewing (Chrysoperla sp.) have provided notable control of the pest insect. Regular releases of lacewings began in 2023 (June through September). Field Inspectors noted the presence of Tortoise Beetle larvae early in 2024 and began releases in April. The releases continue each week at this time. There is no availability of a known natural predator of the Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetle. The City has a no chemical use policy in the maintenance of its public trees and landscaped areas. A reasonable level of control of the pest insect over the next few years, cannot be guaranteed at this time.

Petition from residents: Staff met with a group of residents from North Willaman in May 2024. At that meeting, the City’s maintenance efforts were discussed, as well as problems with several of the natural processes of the tree. Residents expressed several concerns about the long-term performance of the trees, suggesting that they had been patient for a long time without relief from the leaking sap and insect activity. Residents were informed of the process that provides for the review of the appropriateness of a tree type on a street in the City. Several weeks later, the residents of North Willaman submitted a petition that called for the replacement of the tree.

In September of 2024, staff met with a small group of residents from South Willaman who also expressed concerns over the long-term performance of the trees and their failure to give the street a uniform healthy appearance. Ongoing sap and insect problems were identified as significant issues that make the Eucalyptus unpopular with residents of the street.

Input from residents from both North and South Willaman suggests that the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus, despite being given more than two decades to establish itself, has not been a reliable performer that is reflective of the image the residents expect for their street. 4 of 4
In summary, one of the trees natural processes, the production of kino, has proven problematic to residents and their personal properties. Ongoing insect issues show no sign of relinquishing in the near future, even regionally. The activity of insects triggers new growth, which in turn triggers additional kino production. Finally, the overall performance of the trees over time suggests that a significant portion of the population cannot be expected to survive more than 20 years before requiring replacement.

On October 8, 2024, staff met with the Public Works Street Tree Master Plan ad hoc to discuss the challenges in managing the Willaman Eucalyptus trees and to observe the condition of the trees firsthand.

NEXT STEPS
Staff suggests that the Commission considers the input of the ad hoc in addressing the current conditions on Willaman, which may include the selection of an appropriate replacement tree through the development of a Street Tree Master Plan phase for the street. Upon Commission direction, the next phase will include providing ballots to owners and occupants on the impacted blocks with the recommended tree options and returning to the Commission with the results in February.

CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

MEMORANDUM
TO: Public Works Commission
FROM: Ken Pfalzgraf, City Arborist
DATE: February 13, 2025
SUBJECT:

ATTACHMENTS:

Willaman Eucalyptus Street Tree Master Plan Update

1. November 14, 2024 Willaman Drive Staff Report to PWC

2. “On the Street” Meeting Notice to Willaman Drive Property Owners

3. Tree Information Sheets for Potential Replacement Tree Types

4. Sample Ballot Form for Willaman Drive STMP Project

INTRODUCTION
At this time, staff seeks the support of the Commission in balloting the property owners of Willaman Drive to select a replacement tree for the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sideroxylon) trees that currently line the street.

DISCUSSION
After noticing residents of the street (see attached), the “On the Street” meeting was held on Willaman Drive on January 19, 2025. The meeting was attended by 18 Willaman residents, who represented 15 unique addresses on the street, making the 2 of 3
percentage of addresses represented at the meeting approximately 20% (15 out of 75 total addresses on the street.

Staff was joined by both Public Works Commission STMP ad hoc committee members.

The meeting started with a lengthy, data driven, discussion regarding the intent of the STMP of 1996, which included the selection of the Red Ironbark tree for Willaman Drive, and whether or not the desired outcomes of that plan had been achieved on the street.

Outside of one attendee who expressed a desire to retain the Eucalyptus trees, the group felt that the trees had not performed to sustainably in a way that would provide the street with a long-term, reasonably problem free, uniform tree canopy.

Next, the group discussed three types of trees that were being recommended by the city arborist as potential replacements for the Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive. The arborist advised attendees that each of the trees being displayed on the street in 36 inch box-sized samples, meet the criteria set forth by the Public Works Commission for the consideration of replacement tree candidates fin the development of a STMP phase.

That criteria includes:
• Is the tree appropriate to the growspace (e.g. parkway width, aerial setbacks)? • Does the tree have a proven performance record in the City of Beverly Hills or in a similar climate with similar growing conditions?
• Does the tree pose toxicity or allergen concerns to the public? • Is the tree appropriate to low water availability issues or drought? • Will the tree compliment the increased canopy coverage goals of the Urban Forest Management Plan?
• Will the tree significantly increase maintenance costs, to include costs related to private property maintenance and/or long-term City infrastructure repairs? • Is the tree type locally available in the size, quantity and condition appropriate for the current and future needs of the project?
In addition to being able to see physical samples of the nursery stock available for the recommended tree types, the attendees were provided with tree information sheets (see attached) for each of the proposed tree types, which are:
• Australian Willow (Geijera parviflora), an evergreen tree • Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), a deciduous flowering tree • Holly Oak (Quercus ilex), an evergreen tree
At the close of the January 19, 2025 on the street meeting, the general consensus of the group was that Crape Myrtle was the preferred replacement tree, but that an alternating theme of the Crape Myrtle and one of the evergreen trees could be considered as well.

Since the January 19, 2025 meeting, staff has received input from the community that will be discussed during the Public Works Commission meeting on February. 3 of 3

NEXT STEPS
Staff suggests that the Commission considers the input of the ad hoc and public comment prior to supporting the staff recommendation to ballot the residents of the street to choose a replacement tree for the Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive.

A sample of the balloting form is attached. The ballot allows the respondent to choose between keeping the existing Eucalyptus trees, a uniform planting of a tree type chosen by majority vote and an alternating planting of the flowering Crape Myrtle and an evergreen tree chosen by majority vote (see graphic representations below).

Once 51% or more of the addresses on the street respond the ballot, staff will return to the Commission to seek the approval of the replacement tree type and planting theme, (selected by majority vote of the 51% or more responding addresses). At that time, the Commission will also consider the logistics of the replacement of existing trees. Once the STMP phase for Willaman Drive is approved by the Commission, staff will seek City Council approval for the project.

Uniform single tree type planting
Alternating evergreen/flowering tree planting
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$ # 4 s s
City of Beverly Hills 345 Foothill Road Beverly Hills, California 90210 p (310) 285-1000 f (310) 278-1838 BeverlyHills.org Ken Pfalzgraf, Department of Public Works
February 20, 2025
Re: Willaman Drive Street Tree Master Plan Ballot
TIME SENSITIVE: Please return your ballot in the enclosed postage paid envelope by March 20, 2025
Dear Property Owner:

For several years, a number of property owners on Willaman Drive have expressed concerns regarding the appropriateness of the City Red Ironbark Eucalyptus street trees. Concerns include a failure to establish with any degree of uniformity on the street, sap leakage and ongoing insect infestations. In short, there are concerns about the ability of the trees to contribute to the overall aesthetic of the street, even after being given 20 years to do so.

Over the past six months, staff has worked with an ad hoc committee from the Public Works Commission to consider the appropriateness of the Eucalyptus trees on Willaman Drive.

Consideration of the problems with the trees began with an open session discussion regarding the historic performance of the trees in a Public Works Commission meeting on November 14, 2024 and ending with an on the street meeting with residents of Willaman Drive on January 19, 2025. Based on public input and staff recommendations, the Public Works Commission supported the staff recommendation presented during the meeting of February 14, 2025, to ballot Willaman Drive property owners to determine the level of support required to replace the Eucalyptus trees on the street (see attached report).

The City is reaching out to seek your input. The following options are presented in the attached ballot. They are:
• Retain the existing Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees, or • Replace the existing Eucalyptus trees with Ficus trees with a uniform planting of ONE of the following tree types:
o Australian Willow (an evergreen tree)
o Crape Myrtle ‘Tuscarora’ (a deciduous pink flowering tree) o Holly Oak (an evergreen tree)
• Or, replace the existing Eucalyptus trees with an alternating theme of a flowering deciduous tree (Crape Myrtle) and ONE of the following evergreen tree types:
o Australian Willow (an evergreen tree)
o Holly Oak (an evergreen tree)
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BEVERL
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City of Beverly Hills 345 Foothill Road Beverly Hills, California 90210 p (310) 285-1000 f (310) 278-1838 BeverlyHills.org Included with the ballot are information sheets about the replacement tree types being considered to assist you in making your decision.

The City requires that more than 50% of the property owners on the affected street support a proposed street tree replacement project. Please complete the ballot and return it to the City, using the provided self-addressed stamped envelope before March 20, 2025. It is important that you provide your name and address for the ballot to be considered. Staff will be updating the Public Works Commission monthly on the results of the balloting until such time as the more than 50% criteria is met. Once the majority requirement is met, the results of the balloting will become the basis for the staff recommendation to the Public Works Commission, which will be presented in a publicly noticed meeting later this year. With the support of the Commission, the recommendation will move forward to City Council for approval and implementation if necessary.

Thank you for your consideration of this important issue. If you have any questions, comments or need assistance in completing your ballot, please do not hesitate to contact me via email to [email protected] .

Sincerely,
Ken Pfalzgraf
Ken Pfalzgraf
City Arborist
Public Works Department
City of Beverly Hills
Thank you for returning your ballot in the attached self-addressed envelope by March 20, 2025.

City of Beverly Hills
Willaman Drive Eucalyptus
Street Tree Master Plan Ballot
Replacement trees (please choose only one (1) of the selections)  1. No change, do not replace Eucalyptus trees.
 2. Remove Eucalyptus trees, replace with uniform planting of 36” box size trees Choose one (1) tree:

 3. Remove Eucalyptus trees, replace with alternating flowering (Crape Myrtle) and evergreen trees

Choose one (1) evergreen tree:

Name: _______________________
Address: _______________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
Australian Willow (Geijera parviflora) evergreen tree
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex) evergreen tree
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Tuscarora’) flowering, deciduous tree Australian Willow (Geijera parviflora) evergreen
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex) evergreen
□
□
□
□
□
4 4 4 $ 4
$ # s s 4
Tree Information Sheet
Australian Willow (Geijera parviflora)
Native to Australia Australian Willow is a moderate sized evergreen tree. The low branching habit of the Australian Willow lends itself to a broad crowned tree, reaching 50 feet with age. This tree is becoming increasingly popular as a street tree in Southern California due to its drought tolerance and ability to grow in cramped spaces.

The 3-6 inch long evergreen leaves are aromatic, lance-shaped and persistent on limbs that givethe outer parts of the tree a weeping appearance. The flowers and fruits of the Australian Willow are inconspicuous. The tree requires train pruning when young and routine pruning to maintainshape and promote airflow through the crown as the tree matures. The bark of the tree is lightly furrowed and thick. The roots of the tree are generally not intrusive. The growth of the tree is strongly influenced by the amount of water it receives.

The Australian Willow is available in 36-inch box size containers. At the time of installation, a 36- inch box tree would be approximately 10 feet tall, with a crown spread of approximately 5 feet. * Note: As a reference for scale, the individual in the photograph is approximately 6 feet tall.

Established Australian Willow Australian Willow-leaves
700 block Woodworth Street, San Fernando
City of Beverly Hills-Public Works Department
310-285-1000
Tree Information Sheet Australian Willow ( Geijera parviflora ) Established Australian Willow
700 block Woodworth Street, San Fernando
36 box Australian Willow
Australian Willow-leaves
Native to Australia Australian Willow is a moderate sized evergreen tree. The low branching habit of the Australian Willow lends itself to a broad crowned tree, reaching 50 feet with age. This tree is becoming increasingly popular as a street tree in Southern California due to its drought tolerance and ability to grow in cramped spaces.

The 3-6 inch long evergreen leaves are aromatic, lance-shaped and persistent on limbs that give the outer parts of the tree a weeping appearance. The flowers and fruits of the Australian Willow are inconspicuous. The tree requires train pruning when young and routine pruning to maintain shape and promote airflow through the crown as the tree matures. The bark of the tree is lightly furrowed and thick. The roots of the tree are generally not intrusive. The growth of the tree is strongly influenced by the amount of water it receives. The Australian Willow is available in 36-inch box size containers. At the time of installation, a 36- inch box tree would be approximately 10 feet tall, with a crown spread of approximately 5 feet.

Note: As a reference for scale, the individual in the photograph is approximately 6 feet tall.

City of Beverly Hills-Public Works Department
310-285-1000
Tree Information Sheet
Native to China, the Crape Myrtle is a slow growing, deciduous tree. The low branching habit of the Crape Myrtle lends itself to a vase shaped tree, reaching 30 feet with age. The Crape Myrtle has become a popular street tree due to its medium size and profuse, long lasting, summer flowerdisplays. New spring leaves emerge a reddish bronze color, maturing to a glossy green.Clusters of white to red flowers develop at the ends of branches during the summer months. The tree requires train pruning when young and routine pruning to maintain shape and promote airflow through the crown as the tree matures. The bark of Crape Myrtle is thin, and care must be taken to prevent injury when working near the trunk.

The Crape Myrtle is available in 36-inch box size containers. At the time of installation, a 36-inch box tree would be approximately 10 feet tall, with a crown spread of approximately 5 feet.

Examples of maturing Crape Myrtles can be found on Lomitas Drive near Foothill Road and on Spalding Drive.
* Note: As a reference for scale, the individual in the photograph is approximately 6 feet tall.

Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Established Crape Myrtles- Lomitas Drive Crape Myrtle flowers/leaves City of Beverly Hills-Public Works Department
310-285-1000
6 Tree Information Sheet Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) Established Crape Myrtles- Lomitas Drive
36" box Crape Myrtle
Crape Myrtle flowers/leaves
Native to China, the Crape Myrtle is a slow growing, deciduous tree. The low branching habit of the Crape Myrtle lends itself to a vase shaped tree, reaching 30 feet with age. The Crape Myrtle has become a popular street tree due to its medium size and profuse, long lasting, summer flower displays. New spring leaves emerge a reddish bronze color, maturing to a glossy green. Clusters of white to red flowers develop at the ends of branches during the summer months. The tree requires train pruning when young and routine pruning to maintain shape and promote airflow through the crown as the tree matures. The bark of Crape Myrtle is thin, and care must be taken to prevent injury when working near the trunk.

The Crape Myrtle is available in 36-inch box size containers. At the time of installation, a 36-inch box tree would be approximately 10 feet tall, with a crown spread of approximately 5 feet. Examples of maturing Crape Myrtles can be found on Lomitas Drive near Foothill Road and on Spalding Drive.

Note: As a reference for scale, the individual in the photograph is approximately 6 feet tall.

City of Beverly Hills-Public Works Department
310-285-1000
Tree Information Sheet
Holly Oak (Quercus hex)
Native to the Mediterranean region, the Holly Oak is a slow growing, evergreen tree.

The crown of the Holly Oak is rounded in youth, growing more open as it matures. Thetree reaches a height of 50 feet or more at maturity. The Holly Oak is a good choice for a street tree due to its medium size fit to a narrower setback. Thel .5-3-inch leaves are lance shaped with toothed margins, glossy green above and whitish below. Theinconspicuous flower clusters develop into rounded 1-inch acorns. The blackish graybark appears as a collection of furrowed squares. The tree is generally pest anddisease free. Holly Oaks require train pruning when young but require minimal pruning with age.

The Holly Oak is available in 36-inch box size containers. At the time of installation, a 36-inch box tree would be approximately 10 feet tall, with a crown spread ofapproximately 5 feet.

Mature Holly Oaks can be found on Elevado Avenue.
* Note: As a reference for scale, the individual in the photograph is approximately 6 feettall.

Moderate-age Holly Oak-Santa Clarita, CA Holly Oak-leaves/acorns City of Beverly Hills-Public Works Department
310-285-1000
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Tree Information Sheet
Holly Oak ( Quercus ilex)
36" box Holly Oak
Moderate-age Holly Oak-Santa Clarita, CA Holly Oak-leaves/acorns Native to the Mediterranean region, the Holly Oak is a slow growing, evergreen tree.

The crown of the Holly Oak is rounded in youth, growing more open as it matures. The tree reaches a height of 50 feet or more at maturity. The Holly Oak is a good choice for a street tree due to its medium size fit to a narrower setback. The1 .5-3-inch leaves are lance shaped with toothed margins, glossy green above and whitish below. The inconspicuous flower clusters develop into rounded 1-inch acorns. The blackish gray bark appears as a collection of furrowed squares. The tree is generally pest and disease free. Holly Oaks require train pruning when young but require minimal pruning with age. The Holly Oak is available in 36-inch box size containers. At the time of installation, a 36-inch box tree would be approximately 10 feet tall, with a crown spread of approximately 5 feet.

Mature Holly Oaks can be found on Elevado Avenue. Note: As a reference for scale, the individual in the photograph is approximately 6 feet tall. City of Beverly Hills-Public Works Department
310-285-1000

CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

MEMORANDUM
TO: Public Works Commission
FROM: Ken Pfalzgraf, City Arborist
DATE: February 13, 2025
SUBJECT:

ATTACHMENTS:

Willaman Eucalyptus Street Tree Master Plan Update

1. November 14, 2024 Willaman Drive Staff Report to PWC

2. “On the Street” Meeting Notice to Willaman Drive Property Owners

3. Tree Information Sheets for Potential Replacement Tree Types

4. Sample Ballot Form for Willaman Drive STMP Project

Staff was joined by both Public Works Commission STMP ad hoc committee members.

Since the January 19, 2025 meeting, staff has received input from the community that will be discussed during the Public Works Commission meeting on February. 3 of 3

Uniform single tree type planting
Alternating evergreen/flowering tree planting
4 4 4 4 4
$ # 4 s s
Attachment 2
City of Beverly Hills 345 Foothill Road Beverly Hills, California 90210 p (310) 285-1000 f (310) 278-1838 BeverlyHills.org Ken Pfalzgraf, Department of Public Works
February 20, 2025
Re: Willaman Drive Street Tree Master Plan Ballot
TIME SENSITIVE: Please return your ballot in the enclosed postage paid envelope by March 20, 2025
Dear Property Owner: