During the Portland City Council meeting on May 21, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the proposed amendments to the fee schedule for tree permits, particularly focusing on a $400,000 transfer to urban forestry. Councilor Smith raised concerns about the impact of fee increases on East Portland residents, emphasizing the inequity these changes could create. He highlighted the importance of balancing the budget while ensuring that essential services and infrastructure are not compromised.

Smith expressed his commitment to advocating for his constituents, particularly middle school students from the REAP program who attended the meeting to witness civic engagement firsthand. He noted that these fee increases could have a detrimental effect on the quality of life for residents in District 1, calling for more sustainable revenue-generating solutions rather than simply extracting resources.

Councilor Green responded to inquiries about the $400,000 transfer, indicating that it was intended to offset losses from application and compliance fees. He supported the fee package as a means to encourage compliance with the tree permit program, recognizing the need for a balance between regulatory costs and accessibility.

The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges the council faces in addressing budgetary needs while ensuring fair treatment for all residents, particularly those in underserved areas. As the council moves forward, the implications of these fee adjustments will be closely monitored by both council members and community advocates.