Tree Commission

Avon Lake Receives Tree City USA 31st Year Award with 2nd Year Growth Award

Avon Lake's Tree Commission is dedicated to building a community that values and cares for our urban forest. This forest includes parks, street trees, landscaping, stream corridors, and wetlands across municipal, private, industrial and commercial properties. 

Urban forests are living systems that provide essential benefits to people and wildlife. They clean and cool our air and water, manage stormwater, conserve energy, and offer shade and habitat for animals. They also add beauty, structure, and character to our city. By reducing noise and creating spaces for recreation and reflection, urban forests strengthen community connections, improve health, and increase property values. 

What We Do

The Tree Commission promotes the health and safety of all trees in Avon Lake. We work to ensure a fully stocked, healthy, and resilient urban forest by educating residents about the importance of planting, maintaining, and improving trees on both public and private land. 

Our History and Role

Established in 1994, the Tree Commission advises City Council, the Urban Forester (formerly known as the Municipal Arborist), the Planning Commission, and the mayor on matters related to the care and management of trees and shrubs on all City-managed properties, including tree lawns. We encourage all property owners to help protect and grow healthy trees and shrubs—ensuring our urban forest continues to provide lasting benefits for Avon Lake’s residents and visitors.

If you are interested in being a volunteer and a part of the Tree Commission, please forward a Letter of Interest and a brief resume to VRosmarin@avonlake.org.

Quick Links 

Members  |  Meetings  |  Resources

Members

The Tree Commission consists of five (5) voting members and two (2) Ex Officio non-voting members.  Appointed members serve three (3) year terms. 

Resident Representatives:

  • Kim Currie, Co-Chair (term ending 12/31/2026)
  • Katie Downie, Co-Chair, (term ending 12/31/2027)
  • Amanda Ortiz Byrnes, Secretary (term ending 12/31/2027)
  • Sue Newcomb (term ending 12/31/2028)
  • Terry Robison (term ending 12/31/2028)

Administration Representative (Ex-Officio non-voting):

  • Urban Forester, VACANCY

Council Representative (Ex-Officio non-voting):

  • Jennifer Fenderbosch, City Council - Ward 2

Meetings

Tree Commission meetings are typically held at 6:00 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month in the Old Firehouse Community Center, 100 Avon Belden Road, at the corner of SR 83 and Lake Road, across from Veterans' Memorial Park.

Resources