Agenda (Appointed) - Environmental Advisory Committee - 20260223Town of Aurora
Environmental Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Date:Monday, February 23, 2026
Time:7 p.m.
Location:Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Meetings are available to the public in person and via live stream on the Town’s YouTube channel.
To participate, please visit aurora.ca/participation.
Pages
1.Call to Order
2.Land Acknowledgement
3.Approval of the Agenda
4.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
5.Receipt of the Minutes
5.1 Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of October 20, 2025 1
That the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting minutes of
October 20, 2025, be received for information.
1.
6.Delegations
7.Matters for Consideration
7.1 Memorandum from Program Manager, Energy and Environment; Re: Draft
Home Energy Retrofit Program Design Study
6
Presentation to be provided by Janice Ashworth, Senior Consultant,
Dunsky Energy)
That the memorandum regarding Draft Home Energy Retrofit
Program Design Study be received; and
1.
That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments
regarding the Draft Home Energy Retrofit Program Design Study
be received and referred to staff for consideration and further
action as appropriate.
2.
7.2 Memorandum from Manager, Parks and Fleet; Re: The Protection and
Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural
Significance
27
That the memorandum regarding The Protection and
Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and
Cultural Significance be received; and
1.
That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments
regarding The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s
Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural Significance be
received and referred to staff for consideration and further
action as appropriate.
2.
8.Informational Items
9.New Business
10.Adjournment
Town of Aurora
Environmental Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date:
Time:
Location:
Monday, October 20, 2025
7 p.m.
Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members: Ron Weese (Chair)
Shun Chen*
Jason Cheng*
Angela Daust
Leta Dayfoot
Denis Heng
Ken Turriff (Vice Chair)
Members Absent: Victor Carvalho
Alain Godin
Other Attendees: Natalie Kehle, Program Manager, Energy and Environment
Will Stover, Analyst, Energy and Climate Change
Linda Bottos, Council/Committee Coordinator
Attended electronically
1. Call to Order
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
2. Land Acknowledgement
The Committee acknowledged that the meeting took place on Anishinaabe lands,
the traditional and treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island,
recognizing the many other Nations whose presence here continues to this day,
the special relationship the Chippewas have with the lands and waters of this
territory, and that Aurora has shared responsibility for the stewardship of these
lands and waters. It was noted that Aurora is part of the treaty lands of the
Page 1 of 33
Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
October 20, 2025 2
Mississaugas and Chippewas, recognized through Treaty #13 and the Williams
Treaties of 1923.
3. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Ken Turriff
Seconded by Leta Dayfoot
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
4. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.50.
5. Receipt of the Minutes
5.1 Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of June 16, 2025
Moved by Angela Daust
Seconded by Leta Dayfoot
1. That the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting minutes of June
16, 2025, be received for information.
Carried
6. Delegations
None.
7. Matters for Consideration
7.1 Memorandum from Analyst, Energy and Climate Change; Re: 2024 Energy
and Environment Progress Update
Will Stover, Analyst, Energy and Climate Change, presented an overview of
the 2024 Energy and Environment Progress Update with a focus on the
five main environmental themes of water conservation, waste reduction
and diversion, natural capital and biodiversity, energy and greenhouse gas
Page 2 of 33
Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
October 20, 2025 3
emissions, and climate resiliency, including sustainable design measures
implemented at Aurora Town Square.
The Committee expressed appreciation for the presentation and inquired
about the availability of more year-over-year comparison data, including
thresholds, to provide context around the Town’s progress and remaining
work. Staff provided a response, including clarification on rain barrel sales
and urban tree replacements, noting more data will be available in future.
The Committee expressed concerns regarding the Town’s rehabilitation
plan for streams abutting public lands only, and the need to approach
stream rehabilitation holistically, including on private lands. Staff agreed
to share the concerns with the appropriate staff.
The Committee expressed concerns regarding maintenance of the urban
tree canopy and the ability to meet future coverage targets in relation to
new developments, and suggested that developers should be deterred
from removing mature trees and use native species for replacement trees.
Staff noted that developers must meet the requirements of the Town’s
Green Development Standards and Tree Compensation By-law, currently
under review, as well as landscape design and stormwater management
expectations. Staff provided clarification on the Green Development
Standards applications received in 2024. It was further noted that staff
have been requested to investigate and create an inventory of culturally
significant trees with potential heritage value.
The Committee requested information on the Town’s funding request to
the Green Municipal Fund for support of tree canopy growth, and
suggested that boulevard trees should be mandatory throughout the
Town, noting that some older neighbourhoods have no boulevard trees.
The Committee inquired about whether the Town has considered the
concept of micro or mini forests, known to contribute to the overall tree
canopy and biodiversity, and staff agreed to follow up.
The Committee suggested an increased focus on providing residents with
education on the tree canopy, water conservation, planting native species,
gardening, landscaping, and managing invasive species. The Committee
inquired about a possible brainstorming opportunity to discuss ideas on
Page 3 of 33
Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
October 20, 2025 4
how to increase awareness and education, and to recognize community
members for championing environmental goals.
The Committee discussed the need to integrate climate projections into
building design for energy efficiency, urban forest canopy, and stormwater
management.
The Committee further suggested that the Town’s by-laws regulating front
gardens and lawns be relaxed to allow for alternatives such as native and
pollinator-friendly plantings, and xeriscaping.
The Committee referred to the Town’s upcoming transition to a new blue
box recycling program and requested that more details on curbside waste
be provided at the next meeting, and that informing residents of the
changes be prioritized.
The Committee referred to the presented trails-per-residents ratio and
suggested that data metrics from comparator communities would be
useful in future reporting.
Moved by Ken Turriff
Seconded by Leta Dayfoot
1. That the memorandum regarding 2024 Energy and Environment
Progress Update be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding
2024 Energy and Environment Progress Update be received and
referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
Carried
8. Informational Items
None.
9. New Business
None.
Page 4 of 33
Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
October 20, 2025 5
10. Adjournment
Moved by Ken Turriff
Seconded by Angela Daust
That the meeting be adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Carried
Page 5 of 33
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Planning and Development Services
Re: Draft Home Energy Retrofit Program Design Study
To: Environmental Advisory Committee
From: Natalie Kehle, Program Manager – Energy and Environment
Date: February 23, 2026
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Draft Home Energy Retrofit Program Design Study
be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding the Home Energy
Retrofit Program Design Study be received and referred to staff for consideration and
further action as appropriate.
Background
Climate Change in Aurora
The Town is committed to lowering carbon emissions and mitigating climate risk to the
community as part of its 2019 declaration of a climate emergency.
Carbon emissions from Aurora homes are the largest contributor to the Town’s total
carbon footprint, at 37 per cent. A home energy retrofit program was identified as an
essential initiative under the Town’s Community Energy Plan (CEP) in reducing
community emissions. The CEP found that Aurora homes consumed more energy per
square feet than other municipalities in York Region, and above provincial and national
averages.
Currently, fewer than 1 per cent of homes undergo energy retrofits each year in Aurora,
falling short of the 4 per cent needed to achieve Council-approved climate targets.
Homeowners cite lack of knowledge and upfront costs as the main barriers.
Page 6 of 33
DRAFT Home Energy Retrofit Program Design Study
February 23, 2026 Page 2 of 3
The development of an Aurora home energy retrofit program is partially being funded by
the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Community Efficiency Financing (CEF)
program. Program reporting deadlines to FCM are in March 2026.
Analysis
The Home Energy Retrofit Program Feasibility Study (Feasibility Study) was developed
and approved by Council in June 2025. The Feasibility Study looked at the opportunities
and risks of a home energy retrofit program.
Several financing models were reviewed and assessed for suitability. Three loan models
were found to be the most applicable to the Town for further consideration in a detailed
design study. Regardless of the loan model, it was found that regional collaboration
would be the most cost effective.
By approving the Feasibility Study, Council directed staff to continue into the detailed
program design of a home energy retrofit program for Aurora.
Developing a home energy retrofit program for Aurora has centered on working
collaboratively with municipal partners and filling in any existing market gaps. Several
market changes have occurred since the approval of the Feasibility Study in mid-2025:
The Federal Government of Canada’s Greener Homes Loan Program has ended.
The program provided zero-interest loans to homeowners for energy retrofits. A
replacement program may be launched in the future.
FCM’s CEF program is no longer accepting capital loan program applications to
support home energy retrofit loan programs. Future funding programs may open.
Discussions are occurring with municipal partners, advocating for a regional
home energy retrofit financing program.
The York Region Greener Homes Program is under development, with
collaboration from lower tier municipalities, including the Town of Aurora, and
utility partners. The program is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026,
and proposed to offer the following:
o An energy coaching service to support residents in their retrofits journey.
o Virtual Home Energy Assessment Tool (vHEAT): which generates virtual
home energy labels for low-rise homes in York Region (approximately
256,000 homes). The tool provides valuable insights into each homes
existing energy performance and opportunities for retrofits.
Page 7 of 33
DRAFT Home Energy Retrofit Program Design Study
February 23, 2026 Page 3 of 3
o York Region Greener Homes web portal: a secure webservice for residents
to easily manage the retrofit journey, accessing important home
information, utility incentives and managing energy couch appointments.
The Town’s objective for the second phase of this project is a multi-phased approach
with an emphasis on education, municipal partner collaboration and monitoring in the
short-term planning horizon. The program aims to fill gaps of existing programs and
meet the needs of Aurora residents. The proposed program is a collaboration with our
regional partners and community and implemented in a phased approach:
Short term (1-3 years)
Energy Retrofit Coaching: support the York Region Greener Homes Program
development, launch and promotion.
Outreach and Education: community engagement activities on energy efficiency in
residential buildings.
Performance Monitoring: collect data on the program implementation like uptake,
types of retrofits being performed, customer feedback, etc.
Advocacy and Collaboration: continue dialogue, exploration, and advocacy with
municipal partners on additional program opportunities and improvements.
Medium term (3-5 years):
Aurora retrofit grant program for households with low income: staff to develop a home
energy retrofit grant program for income-qualifying Aurora homeowners. Council
approval for a retrofit grant program will be sought in the medium term for this program.
Long term (5-10 years):
Financing Programs: continue to engage with York Region and regional partners
regarding the consideration of a regional cost-effective, low-risk financing program.
Emissions bylaws for existing buildings: explore the option of a regional regulatory
tool for existing buildings with a building performance standard.
Attachments
1. Draft Aurora Home Energy Retrofit Design Study Presentation
Page 8 of 33
February 2026
Aurora Home Energy
Retrofit Program Design
Study
Presentation for Environmental Advisory
Committee
Odunsky
Energy Climate
Page 10 of 33
Home Energy Retrofit Program
A program to increase the rate of energy and
emissions reductions through retrofits of low-rise
homes. The program aims to fill gaps of existing
programs and meet needs of Aurora residents.
Primary CO2
Objective 11111
Secondary
Objective
Reduce GHG
emissions
Protect vulnerable
residents from
energy poverty
1. Recap the results of the Feasibility Study
2. Share the draft Program Design Study
3. Seek feedback on the Program Design Study
from EAC.
4. Ensure internal alignment before taking the
report to Council on March 10.
Page 11 of 33
Space coop--
5%
Lighting
4%
Appliances
13%
Water heating
18%
Space heating
60%
Electricitv
2
Natural ga�
67%
Wood
R 0/-
Most energy (and emissions) in homes is from space & water heating with natural gas
Page 12 of 33
0
89% ni
in energy
poverty
Of the 11 % in energy poverty:
Are single parents
11% in Are seniors
energy Are renters
poverty
Are newcomers
Speak neither English nor French
Older homes
Homes need major repairs M
In core housing need M
Live in apartments ■
Below poverty line M
0% 2% 4% 6%
Efficiency Canada, Community Level Energy Poverty Map I Tableau Public
Energy Poverty: Households spending >6% of their after-tax income on energy bills
Page 13 of 33
THE OPPORTUNITY -
Almost all homes need retrofitting
to meet GHG targets.
• Homes account for 37% of all GHG emissions
in the community.
THE CHALLENGE �L
However, there is currently minimal
home energy retrofit activity.
• < 1% of Aurora homes are completing energy
retrofits annually, based on NRCan data.
• Need to be 4% annually and GHG focused
(-800 units/yr).
Main barriers reported by homeowners are knowledge of solutions and upfront costs.
Page 14 of 33
A
B
C
Turnkey Loan
Program, with
FCM funding
Turnkey Loan
Program without
FCM funding
Targeted Loan
Program with
grant funding
• Third -party agent delivers
program
• Third -party agent delivers
program
• Targeted loans for short-term
• Delivered by Town
• A loan program was
deemed most viable
if done at the Regiona
eve 1.
• FCM funding would make
any a loan program more
viable.
Page 15 of 33
Market transformation
activities will support retrofit
activity regardless of a loan
program.
There are many new
initiatives in development.
The Town's program design
should adjust based on which
ones come to fruition and
build collaborations for
efficiencies.
Continue with detailed
Program Design.
Ir Energy coaching
I. -
Incentives &. rebates
Emissions bylaws for
existing buildings
Page 16 of 33
Regional and Local Municipal Initiatives:
York Region is launching York Greener Homes online platform with home energy ratings
and energy coaching services (much like Durham region). This initiative covers some of
the market transformation components identified in the feasibility study, but not all.
Discussions started at Region regarding loan program.
• Markham and Richmond Hill are undertaking a feasibility study.
Financing for Retrofits: FCM is no longer offering municipalities funds for loan programs.
Federal/Provincial Retrofit Programs:
The federal Greener Homes Loan Program ended. A low -to -moderate income program
is expected imminently (which could include loans and/or incentives).
Local utilities may release more support programs.
Page 17 of 33
York Region's initiative
will cover some of the
market support
elements.
Expected to launch in
mid 2026 and run for 3
years.
Program Design for the
Town will leverage this
program and focus on
the other elements
Energy
coach i rig
C
7�
w Ince -�V-,e & reLiates
Emissions bylaws for
existing buildings
Program Design
Aurora Program Phases Rationale
1. Short Term Actions
Start off with low -no cost 2. Medium Term
value adds that leverage Assess Initiatives
regional and utility programs. impact.
Focus on outreach & Allocate Make moderate investments
resources. to support vulnerable
education, data collection, residents.
and advocacy for growing
support.
Odunsky
3. Longer Term
Initiatives
Align Collaborate with others to
partners build out a package of
initiatives that further support
Aurora's GHG targets.
Program Offering
Aurora Program Offering - Immediate Term
Outreach and Education
• Engagement activities to promote York Greener Homes Program.
• Raise awareness of workforce training opportunities.
Energy Coaching
• Support the York Region Greener Homes Program development,
launch and promotion activities
• Performance Monitoring
• Collect data on the program implementation
' • Follow announcements of federal and provincial support
programs
Advocacy and Collaboration
• Continue dialogue with municipal partners like York Region and
F utility partners on complementary program opportunities and
improvements
Odunsky
Page 20 of 33
• Make the ratings public for market alignment. MI
• Consult stakeholders prior.
• Use industry engagement and consumer education to reduce the high
customer acquisition costs that drive up the cost of heat pumps.
• For efficiency and consistency, assign a liaison to represent York Region
municipalities in collaborating with City of Toronto.
• explore strategies to support work force training organized by the City of
Toronto.
Page 21 of 33
• Aurora online, notice
board & e-newsletters
• Digital street signs
• Posters in Town
buildings
• Town social media
• Table at Home Show
• Information on
building permit
application webpage
& heritage incentive
webpage
• Workshops and
information table at
Library, Seniors Centre
• Social media
advertisements
• GoTrain info tables
• Targeted digital
advertisements
• Messaging through
utilities
• Doors Open events
• Radio advertisements
Page 22 of 33
Program offers income -qualified homeowners rebates for measures such as
heat pumps, insulation, etc.
Page 23 of 33
• Collaborate with York Region and other lower tier municipalities to secure
funding for a targeted incentive program across York Region.
• Engage with York Region regarding a financing program.
• Follow Federal announcements re. Greener Homes Affordability Program.
• Work with York Region on a building performance standard.
• Collaborate with Toronto on best practices.
Page 24 of 33
Rationale:
Homeowners with natural gas are not
adequately supported by existing programs.
Heat pumps are the best opportunity to
reduce GHGs and improve resiliency.
Low -to -moderate income residents in
Aurora qualify for free insulation and air
sealing from the Province (for electric and oil -
heated homes).
Aurora has an existing Green Initiatives
Reserve Fund which grows by-$50k/yr.
Heritage Grant Program is a model.
Proposal:
Allocate-$50k/yr for incentives for low-
income homeowners (those who have
completed the provincial program).
Offer eligible homeowners rebates for:
1. Cold climate heat pumps, (stackable with
other programs).
2. Attic insulation (where Provincial rebates
do not cover the full cost already)
3.Other measures and planning support -
as determined based on assessed needs in
the future (considering that Regional and
Provincial program offers may evolve with
time)
ODo you think there would be uptake for such an incentive program?
How would you suggest participants be recruited?
Page 25 of 33
Approve Program Design Study
Implement the Short Term Program Elements
Develop Aurora Retrofit Grant Program
Explore Longer Term Program Components
Janice Ashworth
Senior Consultant
janice.ashworth@dunsky.com
Contact Tel: 514-504-9030 x4283
Alex Hill
Partner
Alex.hlll@dunsky.com
Tel: 514-504-9030
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Operational Services
Re: The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold
Natural and Cultural Significance
To: Environmental Advisory Committee
From: Matthew Volpintesta, Manager of Parks and Fleet
Date: February 23, 2026
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s
Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural Significance be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding The Protection and
Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural Significance
be received and referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
Background
The following motion was carried by Council on September 23, 2025:
Whereas Aurora is home to a handful of trees believed to be senescent or
centenarian in nature, re presenting important natural, cultural and historical
significance; and
Whereas these trees serve as a living testament and hold future cultivar legacies
to Aurora’s ecological heritage and is valued by residents and visitors alike; and
Whereas the preservation of significant natural features aligns with the Town’s
ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, public education, and the
protection of its natural assets;
Page 27 of 33
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees
February 23, 2026 Page 2 of 5
1. Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That staff be directed to identify these
trees, assess the health, species, and estimated age of these trees in
collaboration with certified arborists and local environmental groups; and
2. Be It Further Resolved That staff report back with recommendations on
measures to ensure the long-term protection and maintenance of these trees,
including hazard risk assessments, long term health plans with yearly
evaluations and other necessary practices to extend longevity; and
3. Be It Further Resolved That the report should also include commemorative
recognition element s such as an interactive plaque at the site highlighting its
ecological, cultural, and natural significance to the community; a
neighbourhood ribbon cutting event to foster community pride; and
collaborative tours or map-based integration with the arboretum; and
4. Be It Further Resolved That staff consult with the Town’s Museum and
Archives, Heritage and Environmental Advisory Committees, if applicable, for
input on the design and wording of the commemorative plaque; and
5. Be It Further Resolved That staff develop an afterlife life plan should the tree
perish such as architectural art; repurposing of wood; and cultivating seeds
and cuttings to expand its genus strain; and
6. Be It Further Resolved That any costs associated with the plaque,
assessment, and preservation measures be considered as part of the next
applicable operating or capital budget or funded through available grants or
sponsorship opportunities.
In response to the above referenced motion, Staff have conducted a best practice
review and prepared a working draft of an End-of-Life Tree Management Guide attached
as an appendix. Through this report, Staff provide detail of considerations made in
working toward a go-forward approach for strategizing efforts to protect, celebrate and
extend the life of Aurora’s heritage trees.
The End-of-Life Tree Management guide provides a structured framework to manage
heritage and mature trees approaching the end of their lifecycle. The draft guide was
Page 28 of 33
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees
February 23, 2026 Page 3 of 5
formulated through a review of tree policies from municipalities across Canada,
including provincial and municipal legislation, best practices from urban forestry
organizations and innovative programs such as TreeCycle Canada. Some examples on
municipalities reviewed include Middlesex Centre (Ontario) Burnaby (British Columbia),
LaSalle (Ontario), and Whitehorse (Yukon Territories), which embed end-of-life
considerations within broader tree management policies.
Furthermore, building on policies from Ontario’s Forestry Act, Ontario Heritage Act,
Municipal Act combined with best practices from urban forestry organizations such as
Tree Canada, who developed an Urban Forestry Guide that emphasize lifecycle
management, risk assessment and sustainable disposal, key components reveal
themselves as core function of a successful management guide.
Several key components around assessment, preservation, and commemoration form a
comprehensive End-of-Life guide.
The following details the key components proposed within the draft guide:
Assessment and Decision Framework, and Registry of Trees
The first step is to establish criterion including what characterizes a tree as having
cultural or natural heritage significance, being; age of tree, species, geographical
location, or other historical occurrences. Once a criterion is set, the tree should be
thoroughly documented, including photographs, measurement, and record of historical
significance for archives.
As part of this assessment, risk assessment should confirm structural decline and
assess health under existing tree inventory categorization. There is also a public
engagement component, which would seek input, including notifying public community
and stakeholders; consider commemorative options.
Tree Protection or Preservation Strategies
Dependent on risk assessment, this can involve species and lineage preservation
strategies (seed bank, nursery reproduction). Further, additional strategies include
heavy pruning focusing on structural integrity, vertical mulching and deep root
fertilization and watering regime.
Page 29 of 33
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees
February 23, 2026 Page 4 of 5
Disposal and Repurposing
Recycling and re-use are excellent options should failure/removal occur. This includes
urban lumber programs, and partnerships with local sawmills or artisans to turn logs
into park furniture, tables, public art installations.
A cited example is TreeCycle Canada who partner with municipalities to urban wood
biomass energy) into clean energy or wood products.
Commemorative Practices
Commemorative practices may involve a myriad of options which include memorial
plaques in situ and heritage displays, archival and repurposed wood through options
detailed above such as public art.
Replacement and Ecological Continuity
Plant native or climate-resilient species near the original site or genetic duplicates
through preservation methods detailed above such as nursery reproduction This is also
a potential consideration as a commemorative practice. It is also recommended to
exceed tree replacement policies and Bylaw (example; multiple young trees for one
large heritage tree).
Policy and Program integration
This focuses on including end-of-life options in Tree Protection By-Laws and Urban
Forestry Master Plans. Further, there are options to integrate practices into other
programs and municipal strategic goals, such as canopy cover targets.
Communication and Education
Communication and Education play a pivotal role in the process from the outset through
the course of the management guide. At the outset, engagement and education help
formulate a list and criterion for designation as having significant. Through the
management plan for a particular tree, engagement and communication allow for
promotion of the tree, in celebrating any commemorative practice or enlightening public
on the process to protect or repurpose a tree.
Page 30 of 33
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees
February 23, 2026 Page 5 of 5
Funding
Funding is a key component to this work and a consideration when applying this guide
to Town trees. Considerations around archiving, and tree protection/preservation are
likely the most significant when accounting for budget needs, as would repurposing.
Communication and education also may impact a need for funding, should materials be
produced. There is a possibility of revenue generation which may contribute to funding
the end-of-life program, through sale of repurposed materials.
Next Steps
Staff will consolidate feedback from the presentation of this report and the draft End-of-
Life Tree Management Guide to the Town’s advisory committees, including the
Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC), Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
PRAC) and Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC) early in 2026. Once received, staff will
report to Council with a go forward approach and complete management guide,
including assessment and listing criteria, and funding strategy to begin this process.
It should be noted, once a final guide is presented, staff will incorporate any endorsed
practices or procedures into the Town’s associated Tree Bylaws which are planned to
be updated in 2027, such as the Tree Protection Bylaw.
Attached for comment is an initial draft of the End-of-Life Tree Management Guide for
any initial comment or consideration.
Attachments
Attachment 1: Draft End-of-Life Tree Management Guide (v.1)
Page 31 of 33
Town of Aurora – Parks Division January 7, 2025
Town of Aurora End-of-Life Tree Management Guide – DRAFT v1
1. a) Registry of Heritage Trees
x List:Establish criterion and list of municipal owned heritage tree registry in
Aurora
x Documentation: Photograph, measure, and record historical significance for
archives.
b) Assessment and Decision Framework
x Risk Assessment: Confirm structural decline, assess health under existing tree
inventory categorization.
x Public Engagement: Notify community and stakeholders; consider
commemorative options.
2. Tree protection or preservation strategies (dependant on Risk Assessment)
x Species and lineage preservation strategies (seed bank, nursery reproduction)
x Heavy pruning focusing on structural integrity
x Vertical mulching/deep root fertilizing
x Watering regime
3. Disposal and Repurposing Options
Recycling and Reuse
x Urban Lumber Programs: Partner with local sawmills or artisans to turn logs into:
o Benches, picnic tables, or park furniture.
o Sculptures or art installations for public spaces.
Example: TreeCycle Canada: Converts urban wood into clean energy or wood
products.
x Community Projects: Donate wood to schools or makerspaces for educational
use
Page 32 of 33
Town of Aurora – Parks Division January 7, 2025
Biomass and Energy:
x Chipping for mulch or compost.
x Biomass energy generation through municipal or private facilities.
4. Commemorative Practices
x Plaques and Memorials:
o Install plaques at the original site or on replacement trees.
o Include QR codes linking to digital archives or tree history.
x Heritage Displays:
o Use sections of trunk for interpretive signage in parks or museums.
x Public Art:
o Commission local artists to create sculptures from salvaged wood.
5. Replacement and Ecological Continuity
x Plant native or climate-resilient species near the original site.
x Follow or exceed tree replacement policies and Bylaw (e.g., multiple young trees
for one large heritage tree).
6. Policy and Program Integration
x Integrate End-of-Life Management guide into associated Town programs and
policies/
7. Communication and Education
x Host farewell ceremonies or community planting events.
x Share stories via municipal websites and social media to highlight sustainability
and heritage value
8. Funding Models
x Revenue:potential with sale of commemorative items, or possible sale of
nursery pots of direct lineage
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