BELPRE — Belpre City Council heard the annual report from the city’s tree commission Monday with finances, volunteer hours and achievements tallied.

Tree Commission Chairwoman Maxine Mobbs addressed council explaining the benefits of urban forestry are more than just environmental. She noted additional benefits of higher property values and improved mental health in citizens.

“Drivers prefer seeing trees in roadsides; it gives you a better pavement line and results in fewer accidents,” she explained. “And as far as stormwater what trees do is retain water… it saves 36 percent of rainfall.”

She noted that in 2018:

∫ Eight city trees were pruned.

∫ Two city trees were removed.

∫ Eight new trees were planted, totaling $1,423.

∫ 291 adult volunteer hours were logged, saving the city $7,184.79

∫ 34 youth volunteer hours were logged, saving the city $839.46.

President of Council Will Neff thanked Mobbs and other tree commission members present for their dedication to their task.

“I never cease to be amazed that we have so many people who work so tirelessly as volunteers for the city of Belpre,” he said.

Council had no old or new business to take care of or vote upon Monday.

But it did discuss two upcoming committee meetings which Neff encouraged the public to attend.

Councilwoman Susan Abdella scheduled two budgetary meetings to discuss permanent appropriations for 2019 on Feb. 5, at 6 p.m. in the city building, and again at 6 p.m. on Feb. 12.

Neff encouraged not only all members of council but also any member of the public to especially attend those two meetings.

“Through the legislative process we will establish what will be spent in 2019,” he explained.

All of council was also invited to attend a recreation meeting on Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. at the city building.

Mayor Mike Lorentz reported to council that the city’s fire department was granted $8,349 for the purchase of new radios and that the new Burger King going in on Washington Boulevard is investing in a natural gas hookup.