Title
Discussion of proposed text amendments to the Lake County, Illinois Code of Ordinances to enhance the planting and protection of native tree and plant species in unincorporated Lake County.
Staff Summary
• In 2022, the Public Works, Planning and Transportation Committee directed staff to draft proposed ordinance amendments including: modifying the Plant Materials list to remove invasive or disease-affected trees; adding trees that are either native or adapted to future climate conditions; reducing required minimum plant caliper width; and increasing species mix limits to ensure more biodiverse and resilient plantings.
• To help determine the feasibility of any corresponding amendments, Planning, Building & Development staff engaged Openlands to conduct a market study regarding the local supply, costs, and any limitations and opportunities to utilize more native plant materials.
• Openlands presented their research findings to the Planning, Building, Zoning and Environment Committee on January 10, 2024. Following the Openlands presentation and based on feedback from the Committee, staff has prepared corresponding draft amendments for Committee discussion.