REMARKS
Council Member Williams introduces bill on tree pruning information accessibility
0:19:01
·
179 sec
Council Member Nantasha Williams introduces Intro 978, a bill requiring 311 and the Department of Parks and Recreation to provide comprehensive online resources for tree pruning-related requests and information. The bill aims to increase transparency, empower residents with knowledge about urban tree care, and encourage community engagement through volunteer certification opportunities.
- The bill mandates 311 to provide links to DPR maps showing tree inspections and pruning schedules, as well as informational webpages on tree pruning.
- It includes information on volunteer certification for street tree pruning.
- Williams emphasizes the bill's potential to bridge gaps between city departments and communities, fostering a safer, greener, and more connected city.
Nantasha Williams
0:19:01
Good morning colleagues and thank you so much to chairs Brewer Salam and most importantly the tech chair Gutierrez for the opportunities to speak today at this joint oversight hearing.
0:19:13
While much of our discussion today focuses on the NYPD's implementation of the post act, a critical step forward in ensuring that our use of surveillance technology is transparent and accountable, I'd like to take a few minutes to introduce an initiative that speaks to another vital element of our work, ensuring that New Yorkers have timely accessible information about the services that impact their daily lives.
0:19:37
My bill, Intro nine seventy eight, is a straightforward but important measure that requires our three one one customer service center in coordination with the Department of Parks and Recreation to provide comprehensive online resources to any three one one customer filing tree pruning related requests or seeking information on the subject.
0:19:59
Under this bill when a resident reaches out about tree pruning issues they will receive online links directed to them.
0:20:05
The map maintained by DPR that displays tree inspections, any map maintained by DPR that outlines tree pruning schedules, and any informational web pages webpage on tree pruning maintained by DPR.
0:20:18
In addition to these digital resources, our constituents will also be provided with available information on opportunities to receive volunteer certification in the pruning of street trees throughout New York City.
0:20:29
Why is this important?
0:20:31
First, it directly supports our commitment to transparency.
0:20:34
Trees are not only an essential part of our city's character and environment, they are a resource that when cared for properly contribute to public health, safety, and community well-being.
0:20:43
By making these resources readily available, we empower residents with the knowledge they need to care for our shared urban landscape.
0:20:50
Furthermore, by including information about our volunteer certification opportunities, this measure encourages community engagement, it opens a path for residents to contribute directly to the maintenance and beautification of our streets.
0:21:03
In doing so, we create a stronger bond between government services and the community reinforcing the idea that New York City is built by and for its residents.
0:21:12
This bill is about leveraging the power of digital communication to bridge gaps between city departments and our communities.
0:21:18
It's about ensuring that residents can easily access the information they need to participate in the care of their neighborhoods and in turn to foster a safer, greener, and more connected city.
0:21:28
I urge my colleagues to support intro September.
0:21:31
It is a very small step but extremely promising with a significant return, increased transparency, enhanced public service, and a more engaged citizen citizen citizens, excuse me.
0:21:43
By empowering our residents with knowledge and opportunities, we uphold the values of public oversight that we champion here every day whether in the realm of technology or in the stewardship of our city's natural resources.
0:21:54
So thank you again for your time and your continued commitment to making New York City a place where every resident can thrive.