Powell Tree Board Organizational Meeting - May 26, 2026

The Powell Tree Board held its first meeting under a new format on May 26, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to approximately 11:51 a.m. (the minutes record adjournment at 11:51 p.m., likely a typo). The meeting was called to order by Chairman Leif Carlson and included the swearing-in of new members, introductions, and discussions on future topics. The board unanimously entered executive session to consider personnel appointments for boards and commissions.

Oath of Office

• City Clerk Elaine McCloskey administered the oath of office to Melissa Hindman, Jonathan Davis, Lance Austin, and Chairman Leif Carlson.

Introductions

• Leif Carlson (Council Representative): Stated his role and goal to maintain the Powell Tree City USA designation.
• Melissa Hindman (Recreation Manager): Oversees maintenance, programming, and special events; prepares the annual Tree City USA application.
• Lance Austin (Maintenance Specialist): Performs most tree-related work and landscaping; previously with City of Dublin Forestry Department.
• Jonathan Davis (Maintenance Specialist): Holds a degree in Natural Resource Management from Ohio State University; worked in Dublin’s tree program.

Discussion Items

• Future Meeting Topics and Tree City USA Compliance: Chairman Carlson noted the board needs six meetings per calendar year for Tree City USA status. He suggested touring Bennett Farm with the Operations Committee, holding remote meetings at sites like Bennett Park and the Lechler Building, and providing guidance on tree and landscaping aspects of city projects.
• Eagle Scout Projects: Hindman reported an Eagle Scout interested in a pollinator garden. She recommended future scouts present plans to the board for review and guidance. A presentation is proposed for the next meeting.
• Arbor Day Celebration: Hindman described the annual event, often combined with Earth Day. This year’s celebration was interrupted by hail, but staff planted a tree with scouts. She wants to formalize the ceremony with partner organizations.
• Operational Pain Points: Jonathan Davis started a list of tree-related issues. Charles Dukes (Public Service Director) identified the need for a policy on trees overhanging roads, impacting snow plowing. Lance Austin noted clearance issues on sidewalks and streets. Carlson mentioned sidewalk replacement costs.
• Collaboration with Columbus Zoo: Carlson recalled past partnerships where zoo staff pruned trees and used trimmings for animal feed. Dukes confirmed the zoo is currently helping remove bamboo from Bennett Park and suggested exploring broader collaboration.
• Invasive Species Removal and Budget: Carlson discussed a modest budget line item for invasive removal. Hindman proposed board-organized volunteer clean-up events at parks.
• Executive Session: The board moved into executive session at 10:48 a.m. under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) to consider appointments for boards and commissions. Members present: Hindman, Davis, Austin, Carlson; staff: Jason Nahvi (HR Director) and Charles Dukes. The board invited Elliott Schaffer and Brooke Moree to participate individually. The board returned to open session at 11:49 a.m. (minutes state 11:49 p.m., likely a typo).

Key Outcomes

• Motion to Enter Executive Session: Passed unanimously (4-0).
• Motion to Adjourn: Passed unanimously (4-0) at 11:51 a.m. (minutes record 11:51 p.m., presumed a.m.).
• No other formal votes or decisions were made; discussions set the stage for future agenda items including Eagle Scout presentations, policy on overhanging trees, and volunteer event planning.