Millbrae to expand free tree-planting program

“The program has been super popular, so we’ve been looking to expand and formalize the program more broadly,” she said. 

In the northern region of Millbrae, residents will be able to pick from four different kinds of trees, including the Chinese pistache, crape myrtle, eastern redbud and southern magnolia, to be planted only in the front yard of the property. In the southern region, where the London plane species is already prominent, property owners can apply for that type of tree only to be planted on a property planting strip in front of the home. 

Concerns from residents about tree growth blocking views in the Mills Estate neighborhood prompted staff to not include the area in their upcoming outreach campaign, Pappajohn said, although homeowners can still apply for a tree under the northern region qualifications. 

“People in that neighborhood wanted to protect their view. They did not want trees to grow that had not been there before,” City Manager Tom Williams said. “We [still include] them, and it would be property by property.” 

If the program is being implemented citywide, it’s important all qualified residents have an opportunity to participate, Councilmember Anders Fung said. Because the tree planting program also offers an option for removal of dying or diseased trees, as well as planting of smaller species, it may actually be an asset for those looking to preserve their views, he said. 

“I would encourage us to look a little deeper into this policy and to make sure this is an opportunity for everyone,” Fung said. 

The benefits of planting shade trees in Millbrae are bountiful, Pappajohn said, particularly because the city’s urban canopy percentage is slightly lower than the county at large. Having natural shade can bring down electricity costs for residents by 4% annually, she said, and can also improve air quality and minimize storm drain runoff. 

In addition to the environmental benefits, beautifying local neighborhoods with the same tree species can boost property values, Vice Mayor Stephen Rainaldi said. 

“Usually neighborhoods that have some type of uniformity raises property values, as well, so it’s an inherent benefit to the homeowners,” he said. 

The program is currently designed for single and multifamily residential homes, though Mayor Reuben Holober suggested it be expanded to commercial buildings as well if it goes well and the city retains financial capabilities for continued tree planting.