Resolution 2013 - 19 - Laserfiche WebLink

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) Resolution 2013 - 19 RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT THE ST. LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETY'S BRING CONSERVATION HOME PROGRAM IN THE CITY OF UNIVERSITY CITY WHEREAS, we believe that a variety of landscapes add diversity and value to the quality of life in University City. Landscaping with native plants to restore habitat is essential for our native birds, butterflies and each other; WHEREAS, the City recognizes that landowners' are interested in having managed native and non- invasive landscapes and encourages the preservation, restoration and management of native plant €' communities and wildlife habitats within the City limits; WHEREAS, the City acknowledges the need to enjoy and benefit from the variety, beauty and practical values of natural landscapes and seeks to offer citizens the freedom to employ varying degrees of natural landscaping as viable and desirable alternatives to other conventional modes of landscaping that are created and sustained in a condition of ecological stability in good health and vigor in compliance with University City municipal codes, as opposed to one of impairment and decline. It is not the City's intent to allow vegetated areas to be unmanaged or overgrown in ways that may adversely affect human health or safety. WHEREAS, the City supports the Bring Conservation Home program, which is an urban land habitat restoration assistance and certification program coordinated by the St. Louis Audubon Society. The certification program supports the restoration of native plant and animal habitat on urban properties by encouraging sustainable plantings, removal of invasive plant species and promotion of healthy habitat for birds, pollinators, and native wildlife; WHEREAS, the City supports the goal of the Bring Conservation Home certification program to address native and non-native invasive plants, water conservation and stewardship practices for the benefit of birds, butterflies, and other animals and people; WHEREAS, the City understands that the program is a voluntary, property owner paid-for certification program for small, private landowners in the St. Louis area; WHEREAS, there are no costs to the City of University City and all University City residents voluntarily participating in the program will receive the service for a reduced fee of$25 (normally costs $50). The fee covers the landowner's participation and one year support from the St. Louis Audubon Society. The fee includes one initial site assessment and consultation visit plus one optional follow-up certification visit; WHEREAS, the City will publicize the program to University City residents through the website and newsletter (as space allows); THEREFORE, be it resolved that the St. Louis Audubon Society's Bring Conservation Home program be endorsed through this resolution by the City of University City with the understanding that this endorsement commits the City of University City to take responsibility for marketing the availability (