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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/04/2026 - Public Comments - Written Public Comments Summary A total of 37 public comments were received before the cutoff at 12:00PM on Thursday April 30th, 2026. The majority(31) were related to the Backyard Habitat Program. An additional 4 comments focused on the level of proposed reductions to library services, while 2 comments addressed decreased funding for community and cultural events. Comment Breakdown Category Number of Comments Backyard Habitat Program 31 Library 4 Cultural Events 2 Total 37 Backyard Habitat Name Jeanne Robbana Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat program Comments We moved to Tigard last year.One of the amenities that attracted us to Tigard was Backyard Habitat,evidence of the City's commitment to a healthy environment.We have joined the program and are evolving our yard to be certified.Friends and family have all been impressed and some are even talking about getting their communities to start similar initiatives in Tennessee, Washington and New Jersey.Please consider continuing funding for this forward looking program,which benefits the entire community now and in the future. Attachment Name Emily Terriquez Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) Tigard,97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments I am disappointed that this program is being cut from the city's budget.This program provides resources about how to increase native plants,which helps promote cleaner air and water,reduces the need for supplemental watering in the summer,and helps our native wildlife have more habitat.This program continues to grow and it would be a shame to end funding at this point in time. Attachment Name Siran Abtin Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) Tigard,97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat(BHCP) Comments I am a gold certified Backyard Habitat property owner.I greatly appreciate this program because it promotes a healthier environment for our community,it increases climate resilience,it cleans our air and water,and increases biodiversity.My property is right next to the Summer Creek Tributary.Ensuring my property is environmentally safe and biodiverse is doubly important because of my location.I've spoken to Clean Water services who has projects in this area and have even offered to volunteer.I understand right now we are facing a major oak tree infestation by the Oak Borer beetle.By becoming Backyard Certified,we are inviting beneficial insects and birds into our backyards-especially the woodpecker,who is a natural predator of this invasive beetle.Please let me know what I can do to keep the BHCP program going.I am happy to volunteer my time and knowledge.Please note that with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,the price of oil and synthetic fertilizer have sky rocketed.The BCHP program helps educate communities on the fact that we can naturally create healthy soil without paying exorbitant prices on synthetic fertilizer.We can save a great amount of money for our residents and business owners. Attachment Name Priscilla Roberts Email Complete Address(Street Name& Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Funding Comments I hope the City of Tigard can fund the budget for the value of community-based climate resilient programming with the Backyard Habitat Certification Program.I ask that the City of Tigard will reconsider its budget proposal and include at least partial funding for BHCP in the upcoming fiscal year to allow us to sustain their work in the City.We all need to work towards creating more carbon- responsible communities for us,our children,and grandchildren. Attachment Name Patti Spreen Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Program(BHCP)W Comments Please save the BHCP fund.Being part of BHCP has meant a lot to me.It's changed how I see and care for my yard—I'm more thoughtful about what I plant and how it supports the environment,and it's become a space I genuinely enjoy spending time in.But even more than that,it's helped me feel connected.I've gotten to know neighbors I might not have otherwise met,and there's a shared sense that we're all doing something small but meaningful together.it makes the neighborhood feel more welcoming,more alive,and more like home. Attachment Name Stacey Nielsen Email Complete Address(Street Name& Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? BHCP Comments My yard has been certified silver level in the Backyard Habitat program for about a year now.It took about six months to remove the English Ivy,Laurel and other invasive species.I have learned so much about the native flowers and the importance of having your yard as a habitat.This is such a great community and it has had a positive impact on my life and many other people I know.In these trying times,it has really helped me focus on the importance of nature.Providing the butterflies and pollinators and birds with food water and shelter has given me so much peace and joy.This program is so important especially now when so much of even our own state will be compromised with data centers and unwanted logging.Please consider continued funding for this program.Thank you. Attachment Name Deborah Taylor Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments BHCP is a program that benefits Tigard in so many ways.Their program is very well organized and gave us everything we needed to get started on making our bit of Tigard healthier for humans and the whole chain of wildlife from soil biota to insects to birds and on.Their program gives ongoing support for the certification process.Even if we do not get certified the knowledge they pass on has already made an impact on our mental health and the health of the neighborhood.Please add something in you budget for BHCP.It will demonstrate your concern for all Tigard's creatures,human and non human.Human health ultimately depends on the health of the environment.Have any of the decision makers looked into the goals of the program?A quick look may surprise and interest you I Attachment Name Jenny Thom Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? BHCP Comments Our family is proud to maintain a Gold Level Backyard Habitat yard,and we have benefitted immensely from this program over t years here in Tigard.Through this experience,we've gained valuable knowledge about water conservation and how to apply it meaningfully in our own landscape.We've also learned how to support pollinators through thoughtful planting choices,which h transformed not just our yard, but our awareness of the local ecosystem.The educational resources and volunteer opportunitie< have allowed us to give back to the community while sharing what we've learned with our children,friends,and neighbors.Our out front often sparks conversations with passersby who are curious about our projects.Today,we're thrilled to host three diffe songbird species nesting in our yard,along with Pacific chorus tree frogs thriving in our backyard pond.We are deeply grateful fc the support and guidance we've received—especially the volunteers who helped us get started on this journey.It has meant so much to our family,and we would be truly saddened to see this program go unfunded in Tigard. Attachment Name Erin Forrester Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,Oregon 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? The Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments As an Oregon Master Naturalist specializing in native plants,gardening for wildlife,and dragonflies(and a presenter on dragonflies at the Tigard City Library),I urge the city to restore funding for the Backyard Habitat Certification Program.My husband and I are deeply invested in this program:not only is our own Tigard property a Platinum certified habitat,but we volunteer as site certifiers, working exclusively within the Tigard community.When I visit residents to certify their gardens,I witness something remarkable.I see homeowners who have transformed their yards,who speak with genuine pride about the native plants they've established,the pollinators they've attracted,and the goals they're still working toward.That enthusiasm does not stay behind their fence. Neighbors stop to ask questions.Yards nearby begin to change.The program creates a ripple effect that no single city planting project could replicate.The BHCP delivers on multiple fronts that align directly with Tigard's environmental priorities.It advances education and community awareness around supporting resident and migratory pollinators and birds—species whose populations depend on connected habitat corridors across neighborhoods.It also meaningfully reduces the city's dependence on water-intensiv turf grass,replacing it with deep-rooted native plants that require far less irrigation once established.This is a program that multiplies its impact through its participants.Losing it means losing hundreds of informed,motivated environmental stewards— and the neighbors they inspire.I respectfully ask that funding be restored for the Backyard Habitat Certification Program in next year's budget. Attachment Name Traci Bridges Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Continued funding of a three year contract for Backyard Habitat Certification Program. Comments Continuing the funding of the 3 year contract in the BHCP provides residents an actionable,positive way to convert the profound psychological distress of climate hopelessness into a powerful action focusing on personal control and connections to community. recurring BHCP feature in the City of Tigard newsletter and on the website is a great way of showing Tigard commitment and support.Updates of new certifications and the address that have been certified.Plus Tigard can get their own green spaces certified...connect,care and improve Tigard environmental health by empowering people to take action.Please continue funding this budget item and promote it aggressively to see the value. Attachment Name Paul Turchan Email Complete Address(Street Name& Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments I am writing to express my strong support for the City's continued funding of the Backyard Habitat Certification Program(BHCP)in the upcoming budget.On a practical level,the program provides Tigard residents with site-specific reports that offer professional, environmentally resilient recommendations for our own properties.For my family,this guidance was the catalyst for removing our lawn in favor of dozens of native species that will conserve water and bolster local biodiversity.By connecting participants with resources and discounts at local nurseries,the BHCP makes these necessary ecological improvements accessible and actionable for the average homeowner.My advocacy,however,is primarily driven by the need to foster a deeper sense of place and connectedness within our community.The City has made commendable investments in public access—such as the recent work on the Fanno Creek Trail—which allow folks to recreate in nature.A well-funded BHCP complements this by turning residents into active stewards who feel an emotional and intellectual depth of connectivity to our natural world.Our enrollment has inspired my family to move beyond our property lines and volunteer locally to remove invasives and plant natives in our shared public spaces—I suspect it has a similar effect on others.Our kids pause to enjoy and comment on public spaces and gardens.In an age of declining civics and rising cynicism,this program offers a tangible way for our children,our citizens,to develop what Aldo Leopold referred to as a land ethic,a heightened sense of conservationism,and a lifelong obligation to their surroundings.I urge you to maintain this vital link between our private backyards and our public values. Attachment Name CHRISTINA Van Cleave Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number, City,Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Comments I recently saw a sign in someone's front yard that said backyard habitat.I was curious so I did a quick google search and discovered that it was exactly what I'd been looking for.My whole purpose for gardening is to support the local ecosystem and without backyard habitat i would have never learned about native plants and how they are what actually benefits the ecosystem,not ornamental plants.I'm now filling my whole property with native plants to help the birds and bugs and i encourage anyone to join the habitat group.Please continue supporting this organization so they can continue to educate the public.A quote from my 6 year old who loves to help me garden and learning about native plants says"you should keep giving money to help the bugs because we took over the property of the bugs so we should repair some by doing all natives".And i couldn't agree more with him.We must live in harmony with nature,not against it.And this program does just that.Thanks. Name Alicia Riley Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Illingard OR 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? $25k budget for Backyard Habitat Program Comments I find it extremely ridiculous that my community government is considering eliminating a measly$25,000 budget line item tc the backyard habitat program.I suggest you do some research on how native plants actually benefit are environment,it attr people to the area do the beauty,it preserves our natural resource resources,it attracts native wildlife,which is crucial to of ecosystem,it provides a community of folks to learn,and be part of to improve our landscapes and attract people to this pal town beyond Portland,the program encourages beautification,and the program helps educate folks,so invasive weeds can eradicated,which also benefits the city of Tigard Brown's team is not spending time eradicating that has spread into public a from home yards. Name Wesley lordan Email Complete Address(Street Name& Number,City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat contract Comments Please honor your ongoing contract with Backyard Habitat to work with Tigard residents to develop and maintain sustainable native vegetation.Even in tough economic times the City must not renege on a previous commitment to a worthy cause. Name Michelle Beck Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number, City,Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Social Services,Library and Police future budgets. Comments I am a Tigard resident of almost 17 years and I work at Tigard High School.After reviewing the proposed budget,I am deeply concerned about the decline in Library and Social Services funding over the next two years.I was under the impressions that cuts would be made across the board,yet this does not seem to the case.Please do not misunderstand,I fully support our Police Department and everything they do to keep our city safe and a secure.My concerns is that the Police budget seems to go up by a lot while the funds for very important social services and the Library largely decrease.This does not seem equitable.Working at Tigard High and formerly Twality Middle School,I have seen how important it is to keep kids reading and engaged;with our population continuing to grow,how can we support the children and so many others who utilize those services which a declining budget?I love our Tigard Community events;they are incredibly important to support our diverse community and bring people together.I feel like the programs which offer compassion and connection are being too deeply cut and this will have a very negative impact on Tigard.It is a wonderful place to live,but please do better to support all members of our community,not just those in uniform.Thank you. Attachment Name Mona Knapp Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments All Tigard residents are affected by the slow but steady decrease of green space--construction,development of new housing, pouring of large swaths of cement,widening of roads.Each project benefits the community in some way,but also permanently removes habitat for birds,wild animals,and countless smaller forms of life that contribute to healthy soil and clean air.Concerned citizens counteract this by providing a city-wide network of private properties as a Haven for wildlife,with water sources,food, shelter,and protection from herbicides and pesticides.Participants plant thousands of native plants each year at their own cost. What an important statement it makes for the City,with so many development projects,to actively support this program.Cutting the funding also makes a statement.The Backyard Habitat Program is directly in line with City Strategic Priority 3(objectives 2 and 3) to mitigate greenhouse gases and provide climate resilient landscapes.The cost to the City of supporting these protections is vanishing small,compared to millions spent on development and impermeable paving.Please restore this small budget item that has a huge impact on climate and livability.Thank you. Attachment Name Bev ANDERSON Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments Please consider funding this very beneficial program. Attachment Name Lynn Cynar Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR.97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program(BHCP) Comments Continued fiscal support and collaboration with our partners is vital for this invaluable local program.While many Federal Funded conservation organizations have been cut,the BHCP keeps hope alive. Attachment 1:111 Illti''I .- , Illhlfrit ilir` ., ....sAL:....7 - , ,, ft# . s"". • b . tb. . . 9 r • • Name Peggy Harmon Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Cutting funding for Backyard Habitat Comments They have provided training and valuable information to me and others in my neighborhood regarding establishing native plant the importance to the pollinators,and other wildlife to include insects that provide food for wildlife.They are providing an important service for the world's future habitat. Attachment Name Jan Acker Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Tigard 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Funding for Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments I am writing to encourage the City Council to continue funding the Backyard Habitat Certification Program in Tigard. My yard is currently Silver Certified,thanks to the information and guidance I've received from this crucial program. BYHCP does so much encourage,educate,and support Tigard residents create healthy habitats in our outdoor spaces.In fact,"Healthy Habitats--M a lasting impact in our gardens"is the name of a group we started in Summerfield to encourage neighbors to use native plants benefit pollinators and other wildlife.Seven participants of our group have already received certification from BYHCP with mor process.We're working to encourage a more environmentally responsible approach to our gardens,and we're strong advocat= BYHCP.I urge you to continue to support this program which does so much to help people create healthy habitats,garden by garden. Attachment Name Lynda Steiner Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) igard,Or 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments Please continue funding for the Backyard Habitat Certification Program...lt is with sincere disappointment seeing large,beautiful, natural lots being sold for development into smaller lots for close,side by side housing.Replacing natural habitats necessary for wildlife,clean air and water should never be an option.If anything,we must choose increasing or maintaining natural habitats in for the betterment of our neighborhoods along with continuing to provide increased biodiversity.More housing brings more people, more traffic which decreases the aesthetic and livability of our neighborhoods.Please choose a green economy for Tigard's future by supporting future funding for BHCP...I want to continue to be proud of Tigard by making this area stand out from other areas due to our continued support for the beauty of our natural areas. Attachment Name Terry Schmidt Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Healthy Habitats Certification Program Comments This program has helped a group of homeowners in our community to plan,research,and acquire resources to transform part of their gardens to be more wildlife friendly.We are just getting started and are expanding pur efforts.It would be a share to lc the valuabe information and support we have been provided. Attachment Name Jan Merrick Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Tigard 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Funding for Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments Please continue to provide funding for the Backyard Habitat Certification Program.This program provides valuable informal support on sustainable landscaping to not only homeowners but also local businesses.They promote planting native and ha friendly trees that support Tigard's"City of Trees"identity. I have a group of nearly 40 neighbors who are just learning abol plants and habitat gardening,and BYHCP helps us with speakers and guidance. Attachment Name Tom Merrick Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program(BHCP) Comments To the City Council,the Backyard Habitat Certification Program is a vital part of this city and contributes mightily to our livibility. program,with limited costs compared to other programs offers significant paybacks.One certification typically generates anoth even more interested participants.Considering the potential cost this city is facing for a new police and maintenance facility,thi program is a bargain and deserves to be funded! Please,please,reconsider funding this program and keep our beautiful city mo forward in it's environmental goals!Sincerely,Tom Merrick Tigard resident. Attachment Name Rachel Rook Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Comments I'm writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed cuts to this program. From personal experience,this program meaningful and lasting impact on how I care for my home and connect with my community.It has inspired me to be more intentional about how I use my yard,considering not just aesthetics,but how my choices affect local wildlife,water usage, . overall health of our environment. Because of this program, I've incorporated more native plants,created spaces that supp pollinators,and made more responsible decisions around soil and water management. Programs like this don't just benefit individuals;they strengthen communities and contribute to a more sustainable,resilient city.Cutting it would mean losing an educational resource, but also a source of inspiration and connection that motivates people to care more deeply for the they live.I urge you to reconsider these cuts and recognize the long-term value this program brings to our environment,ou neighborhoods,and the people who call this city home. Attachment Thank you, City of Tigard Name ;OHN W.3 re' Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Funding for the Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments I am a Tigard resident and have been working with this program for over a year to transform my yard into a natural habitat.The work was finally completed this month.My neighbors and HOA members were initially skeptical,but since the project is comple everyone is stopping to admire the yard and all have commented on how beautiful it is.See photo attached which is only a sect of the new landscape.I could not have done this without the guidance of the Backyard Habitat program and the designers and landscapers that they work with(including some Tigard businesses).They have helped many Tigard homeowners transition the yards into wildlife habitats.If council wants Tigard to be a beautiful and natural looking city it must continue at least some fund for this organization. Attachment 4111 Name dare Bronder Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments It's my understanding that continuation of the valuable Backyard Habitat Certification Program is in jeopardy. My Summerfield community has seen improvements in the health of our habitats as homeowners plant native plants that offset the poor decisior others who cut down all their trees and install plastic grass.There is more variety of bees,butterflies,dragonflies and birds.If Ti€ government cares about providing us citizens a healthy environment,please keep the BHCP funding in the budget.Our neighbor City USA Tualatin should be an inspiration for us to continue the BHCP.Thank you! Attachment Name Ronda Butler-Villa Email Complete Address(Street Name& Number,City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Funding for Backyard Habitats Comments This is a tough budget year.However,cutting funding in the middle of a three-year contract is unconscionable.This group has provided necessary and helpful resources to over 200 residents in Tigard—and more by word of mouth.Was the rest of your Carbon Responsibility Community Development programming also cut?How short sighted!We need birds and pollinators,shade trees, clean air and water,increased climate resiliency,and efforts to curb carbon,particularly as more and more development occurs. Asking residents to do their parts is reasonable—but resources and training is needed.These are provided by Backyard Habitats.I urge you to reconsider this budget cut. Attachment Name Jocelyn Losh Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) need 97225 Which budget Item are you commenting on? Backyard habitat certification program de-funding Comments I am writing as a resident who started my Backyard Habitat Certification in 2025 at my home off of Tigard St.This program provides a multitude of resources to homeowners and businesses in our community who are looking to create wildlife corridors by adding native plantings.Not providing funding to continue this work in our community is a huge disservice to Tigard residents and shows a lack of commitment to protecting the land and its inha btants.In 202G.I wos looking forward to having my yard re-evaluated and certified as a Backyard Habitat.It is obvious how successful of a program this is if you travel through any city in the PDX metro area.it would be disappointing to lose the momentum here.Please reconsider what this item means to us here in Tigard. 1 • .• ,. c��3rrr • • • ;:. Name Dean Moberg Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District, Hillsboro,OR.97124 Which budget item are you commenting on? Backyard Habitat Program Comments Please see attached letter in support of funding the Backyard Habitat Program. 4' ) Tualatin Soil Water � CONSERVATION JISTRIC• Budget Committee 22 April 2026 City of Tigard To the honorable City of Tigard Budget Committee: Executive summary: At our regular April 14 meeting,the Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District board voted unanimously to reach out to the City of Tigard regarding the importance of continued funding for the Backyard Habitat Program. Important details: • The Backyard Habitat Program is an effective and economical way for Tigard residents to make real habitat improvements for pollinators,beneficial insects, songbirds,and other wildlife species. • The program also helps Tigard residents improve water quality,manage stormwater runoff,and reduce pesticide use.The native plants established through the program sequester carbon,supporting Tigard's Carbon- Responsible Community Development effort. • The Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District wholeheartedly supports the Backyard Habitat Program,including providing approximately S56,000 in funding for this fiscal year. • The Backyard Habitat Program is also supported by a host of other local agencies and municipalities,including Clean Water Services,the City of Beaverton,the City of Hil Isboro,the City of Tualatin,and Oregon Metro. The City of Tigard's website says it best: The program has operated successfully since its launch in 2009.Today,there are over 1, 580 enrolled properties,spanning nearly 3,403 acres region wide.These properties are mostly single-family residential lots,but also include several multi- family dwellings,and public demonstration sites at schools and places of worship. To date,the Backyard Habitat Program has worked with over 200 residents in the City of Tigard. 1"dl�C L V I L LL Hlll II LULU The investments the City of Tigard makes in the Backyard Habitat Program provide benefits that extend for years or even decades after a resident enrolls.It's not just the right thing to do-it's also economical.I believe the City is providing$24,000 for the program this year and was slated to provide S25,000 in FY 27.The program does not require City staff time to implement The Tualatin SWCD board understands budget constraints.If fully funding the Backyard Habitat Program is not possible for FY27,perhaps you might consider exploring partial funding? Thank you for the chance to provide this information,and for your service to the community. Name Margot Monti Email Complete Address(Street Name Cr Number,City,Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Contract to help fund Backyard Habitat Certification Program Comments With alarm,I urge you to maintain the funding that Tigard has contracted to the Backyard Habitat Certification Program.in this tiny financial gesture-0.01%of Its total budget-Tigard demonstrates unity with the greater regional community-a community that cares deeply for the unique robust ecosystems that bring people here to live,work,and play.One that lifts up the andent culture of stewardship practiced by the people Indigenous to this region who have called this place'Home'since time immemorial.One that understands people are a part of the vast interconnected network of systems that support life on earth,not apart from it.A community that recognizes that if we do not show up to care for this place and for each other urgently,we will all suffer loss in the ability of our environment to sustain us.Please consider this decision in the context of City Council's 2026 Goal 3 and Community Promise:With negligible financial and no labor Investment,the MCP provides maintained natural areas and gives residents access to opportunities that enhance the health and well-being of the community(Str.3.1),especially for those of us who do not live within a 10-minute walk of a park;we create our own.It is estimated that in dollars alone,this$25k is realizing a 30z return.This program strengthens community resiliency(Str.3.21:a healthy ecosystem means healthier people.Not pouring herbicides and toxic fertilizers into the desert of a'well-manicured'lawn keeps our soil,air and water cleaner for all.Going outside to tend the land enhances physical and mental health,inspires wonder,and provides meaningful community connection(Ste 3.3)with neighbors across the street and across the region;we share knowledge,seeds,plants, mulch.It also means less long-term municipal water usage,as native plants require no irrigation once established.In dollars,how much does lawn watering cost every year across the city?BHCP by definition embodies the sustainabigty and enhanced Suability noted in the Council's'Environment'promise.Most crucial to this uncertain time,community networks and building trust are the best survival took we have.Pulling out of this contract not only sends the message to residents and surrounding cities that Tigard can't deliver on even small commitments,it also hints that it does not truly value its place in this greater community and the features that make the Pacific Northwest a unique treasure.Please reconsider. Attachment BHCP in Tigard.2026.odf Thank you, City of Tigard Alh_. BIRE ALLIANCcatlunilii. y Backyard �° +° 4' Habitat / Certification Program Backyard Habitat Certification Program City of Tigard-Spring 2026 Background The natural world provides us with the air,water,food,and shelter we need for survival. We believe in reciprocity-caring for the Earth in return for all it provides us.Within our region,development and toxic landscaping practices are major stressors to our lands and waters.Wetlands and once-thriving oak woodlands have been cleared to make space for human homes and commerce.Meanwhile,many species that relied on these ecosystems,including frogs,salamanders,many species of birds,and important fish species like lamprey and salmon,now struggle to survive.The Backyard Habitat Certification Program(BHCP)invites people to learn about and explore their role in caring for our land and water.Whether it's in their yard,apartment common areas,HOA, community garden,school grounds,place of worship,or other type of greenspace,we envision a region where everyone can play a role in healing the land. ata Private properties account for 40%of the land in our region,making it crucial to directly engage residents to achieve watershed health goals.But most people have a limited understanding of how polluted stormwater,pesticides,and other environmental stressors impact the health of our rivers and wildlife populations.BHCP responds to this need by providing one-on-one education and personalized guidance on these important topics.By providing information,recommendations,and resources such as native plant discounts,we empower and incentivize them to take the following actions:1)reduce runoff from impervious surfaces by managing stormwater on-site,2)remove ecologically harmful plants(aka invasive weeds)and replant with Willamette Valley native plants,3) reduce or eliminate the use of herbicides and pesticides,and 4)install habitat elements to support diverse wildlife,including pollinators and birds.This turns residents into land stewards-restoration volunteers who are making a positive impact.With over 14,500 participants in the program,this collective effort has created 3,800 acres of healthy ecosystem corridors across the region that contribute to watershed health efforts and publicly owned greenspaces like parks and conservation lands. BHCP is providing critical climate,ecological,and stormwater support that is integral to the City of Tigard's goals.Through the partnership of two conservation non-profits, Columbia Land Trust and Bird Alliance of Oregon,we bring regional conservation knowledge.tools,and resources to residents.BHCP is valued by cities across the region for effectively engaging residents in changing behaviors that improve local streams and rivers.It builds on work being done by cities and agencies on larger tracks of public land, creating corridors of wildlife connectivity through urban and suburban areas.Many BHCP properties are adjacent to natural areas,extending the benefits of our participants' volunteer labor(see Economic Value below). To support local climate resiliency and river health goals,BHCP helps each participant create a plan to manage stormwater on-site,eliminate their use of pesticides,and restore their properties using natural methods.These plans include removing priority weeds,planting native trees and vegetation to cool stream temperatures,using Integrated Pest Management techniques,and implementing stormwater management features to prevent runoff and polluted waterways.With hundreds of households joining the program each year,BHCP has established deep roots in the region and is a trusted program that participants recommend to friends and neighbors.Relationships built with community members are long-term,in-depth,and far-reaching. In 2019,thanks to a strong partnership with the Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District(TSWCD)and local cities,BHCP expanded into Washington County,including into the City of Tigard.Since then,we have partnered closely with the City,providing our program services to their residents,collaborating with City staff on creating programmatic synergy with their Carbon Responsibility Community Development programming,and piloting a project with community sites to implement carbon-responsible actions through providing stipends and additional support.To date. we have worked with over 195 Tigard residents and continue to see exciting demand, enrolling around 30 new sites every year within the City and over 250 new participants within the District as a whole.Our work with community sites,such as Good Neighbor Center,Just Compassion,and Brookside HOA,in Tigard,helps us reach an even larger number of residents and can be more engaging for residents who do not have the privilege of owning property.We hope to be able to continue this partnership with the City for years to come. Happy Certified Tigard Participant 7 a i, r r tilliii- ., . . . _:.,,,A_,. . . _ .,. . . , ?,• M . (erlrl�r A Ilr.t. I r`J , Y Platinum Certified Silver Certified --_ • 44:1 , , o. ..�. • rie 4~ EX•- Gold Certified Tigard Participation Distribution NIOHL ANO s T ;¢ MUL1 SW l��rb SW Krill WHITE ORD SW Omar NOM�E aSW OWM/�T��.A_ • Garden ^'� •DH Home-Whitford y " GPIENWAE e) AINCREE! fEIITON / Q MGUNrAIN yl�,l„w,x •3 WEST►ORTLAND rnw y I ow. ` E cll�! Q, `w SOUTH Q SW WO4 !EA'I(P"1N q Q QoQ 9 6V • ,919 v• '(QQQQ Q L..1 $Q TAI1 SOUTHWEST NEIQN11L,P, !� M1- !OUTNWr Q•- QQ Q/1� v_A,n99 Q .L...9 R Q�'Q Q "v��vl,v� Q U v 'gq MOUNTAIN - 99 Q QQQG‘QQ Q`Q)(QQj�,�- Wkf fLA[E DULL MOUNTQ. Q OQVQ,4 94(9 i S sLASO WALUGA 9 Q9„ `Q 9 • 9 I °sp L D QQQ0Q C "�.""' K -Qo v�� SW:1.1.-b -9 coo. JEAN i iW'b SLUE ` f -fc\-_. 4l� II I.I sir SW •, ROSEWOOD Backyard Habitat Certification Program Site Inventory All Years LJ Program Boundary Parr riparian i"el .. I Platinum • Gold • Sivcr •—' F • In Progress • r�. t • ♦r. 1 Complete package of services provided to each enrollee: 1) In-person site assessment by a trained Habitat Technician: • Identification of ecologically harmful plants ("invasive weeds") • Identification of native plants • Welcome Packet - connects participants to local resources and discounts such as a coupon for a free native yard tree from Friends of Trees and our Native Plant Discounts Flyer, which provides discounts at 18 local retail nurseries that stock native plants (Ash Creek Forestry, Bosky Dell Natives, Calypte Gardens, Cornell Farm Nursery,Dennis' 7 Dees,Echo Valley Natives,Fang Pet&Garden Supply, Garden Fever, Good Year Farms, Green Seed Gardens, Left Field Garden Supply, Native Plantscapes NW,Nature's Haven,Portland Nursery, Revive Gardens PDX,Sauvie Island Natives,Sparrowhawk Native Plants, SymbiOp, and Twinflower Natives). • "Habitat Restoration in-Progress" yard sign • Baseline data collected for each site - ecologically harmful plants and native plants present, stormwater and wildlife stewardship actions taken, pesticide use, etc 2) Personalized site report (emailed to participant after the visit) that includes: • Personalized list of recommended native plants according to site conditions • BMPs for each ecologically harmful plant present,as well as removal advice • Information on stormwater management options • Information on how to recognize harmful herbicides/pesticides, reduce usage, and find safer alternatives using Grow Smart, Grow Safe • Information on wildlife stewardship options 3) Access to our on-line Resource Library with 250+ handouts and informative articles; participants use these to successfully implement the recommendations provided. 4) Arborist and Landscape Professionals Directory - 65+ affiliated landscape professionals attend an annual training,signed a program MOU,paid a small fee to be listed, and provided reports on projects. 5) Ongoing follow-up: follow-up phone calls and emails every 6 months 6) Opportunity to receive a remote or in-person follow-up consultation, if needed, while working towards certification. 7) Quarterly e-newsletter -17,000+ recipients receiving information and resources about sustainable landscaping practices. 8) Follow-up certification visits with trained volunteers: • Metal"Certification" sign awarded if criteria for certification is met • "Upgrades" to higher levels of certification (gold, platinum) • Follow-up data taken - invasive weeds, stormwater actions, pesticide use, etc • Certification is valid for 3 years - then needs to be "renewed" 9) Certification "benefits" - gift card to Backyard Bird Shop ($10 - Silver, $20 - Gold, $30 - Platinum) and 20% off at One Green World. 10) Invitation to Annual Open Gardens Project - Started as an effort to connect participants to each other and share resources and inspirational success stories, certified program participants welcome attendees to their yard during pre-arranged dates. It is largely volunteer-managed, making it an excellent investment. There's an additional Clark County-specific Open Gardens each year. In 2025, the Open Gardens Project had 51 gardens sign up to be hosts, with most hosts opening their yards for multiple days. Cumulatively, there were 124 opportunities to visit one of the gardens, and 13,166 participants were invited to attend. 2026 Washington County Funding To ensure a sustainable funding model that provides continuous service to residents without interruption,BHCP leverages support from 23+funding partners throughout our 4-county service area, including these in Washington County: Tualatin Soil&Water Conservation District City of Hillsboro City of Beaverton City of Tualatin Clean Water Services Annual Economic Value of Backyard Habitat: This section highlights the monetary value that our program provides to Tigard and the region per year. BHCP participants are stewardship volunteers dedicating their time to restoring their properties using regional restoration guidelines. Restoration actions include removing ecologically harmful plants, restoring their properties by planting native plants, supporting life cycles of wildlife, processing stormwater onsite, and reducing or eliminating their use of pesticides and herbicides. This value is not reflected in our budget but is a significant contribution to Tigard's environmental and economic goals. • Program volunteers- educate, engage, and certify. 50+ trained program volunteers dedicate an average of 1,000 hrs annually: 1,000 hrs @$34.79/hr = $34,790 value • Participants as "stewardship volunteers" on private lands: o Remove priority noxious weeds: approx. 20 hrs/year x 14,500 participants = 280,000 hrs/year @ $34.79/hr = approx. $10,089,100 value o Plant native plants: approx. 20 hrs/year x 14,500 participants = 280,000 hrs/year @ $34.79/hr = approx. $10,089,100 value • Native trees and shrubs purchased from local retail nurseries and planted: 50,000 trees & shrubs @ approx. $8 each = $400,000 value • Personalized support: o In-Kind enrollment incentives (coupons, free resources, discounts): 1,000 enrollees @ $320 = $320,000 value o Certification benefits: 350 certifications @ $65/certification = $22,750 value • Supporting the green economy: income earned by arborists and landscape professionals listed in directory = $1,800,000 value (not included: income earned by native plant growers and local retail nurseries) TOTAL 2026 PROGRAM VALUE TO 4-COUNTY SERVICE AREA = $22,755,740 PROPORTIONAL VALUE TO WASHINGTON COUNTY (25%OF COUNTY TOTAL) = $5,688,935 PROPORTIONAL VALUE TO CITY OF Tigard (3.5%OF TOTAL) =$796,451 Library Name Stephanie Bestland Email Complete Address(Street Name&Number,City,Zip Code) Tigard,97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Comments Please do not cut the Library Social Services Coordinator position!This is a critical resource for our community,and one we cannot afford to go without.The library has always been a welcome,neutral space for all,and is a natural place to find help and resources. The coordinator is essential in bridging that gap in access and knowledge to life-saving social services. Attachment Thank you, City of Tigard Name Molly Haag Email Complete Address(Street Name& Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Library services Comments I am writing to express my deep concern about the proposed 20%reduction in library funding.This level of reduction is not only disproportionate compared to the 1-2%cuts—or lack of cuts—applied to other departments,but it also places an unfair burden on a vital community resource.As a mother,I rely on our library as a safe,enriching space for my children.It is where they build early literacy skills,develop a love of reading,and participate in programs that support their growth and curiosity.As a kindergarten teacher down the road at a TTSD school,I see firsthand how essential access to books,storytimes,and educational programming is—especially for young learners and families who may not have resources at home.Libraries are not a luxury;they are a foundational part of a healthy,equitable community.They support early childhood education,provide access to technology,offer job-seeking resources,and serve as one of the few free public spaces open to everyone.If budget reductions are truly necessary,I urge you to consider a more equitable approach.A 20%cut to the library,while other departments face minimal or no reductions, sends a message that this essential service is less valuable.It is not.Please reconsider this proposal and pursue a solution that reflects both fairness and the critical role libraries play in our community.Thank you for your time and consideration. Attachment Name Tina Yep Email Complete Address (Street Name& Number, City,Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? Tigard Public Library Comments Dear Tigard Budget Committee,I am writing to express my concern regarding the FY27 proposed budget.As it stands,the City plans to cut$1.9 million from the Library,compared to$258,000 from the Police Department and$525,000 from Public Works.While all three departments are essential to our community,the current proposal places a disproportionate burden on the Library.I respectfully ask that you reconsider the significant disparity in these reductions.Although often categorized as a"soft"service,the Library functions as a vital community hub.Tigard Public Library serves residents of all ages—from toddlers to seniors—by fostering connection,learning,and engagement.Storytimes bring together young families,teen programs provide a safe and supportive environment,and technology classes help seniors build essential digital skills.Programs like book clubs further strengthen intergenerational connections within our community.Additionally,Washington County voters—including Tigard residents—recently demonstrated strong support for library services through the passage of Measure 34-345.This underscores the value our community places on equitable access to library resources.The proposed cuts do not reflect these shared priorities.I urge you to revise the budget so that the financial challenges facing our city are distributed more equitably across all departments.Thank you for your time and consideration.Sincerely,Tina Yep Attachment Name Amanda Woodruff Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard,OR 97224 Which budget item are you commenting on? Library budget cuts Comments Tigard Budget Committee,The reason the budget starts with an overview statement is to signal what kind of city we want to live in &what our priorities are.Somehow in the last year,Tigard's priority has gone from housing and economic opportunities to policing? Was this at the request of the citizenry,city council,or some other body?The priority change is not the only concerning difference;I also worry that the budget cuts are not being shouldered equally among departments.The library budget is being cut by almost 20% (making up almost half of the entire city budget reductions)while public works and the police are facing very slim adjustments—yet they have an extensive$150 million bond measure on the upcoming ballot.Last fall,voters passed the library levy by 56%,saying clearly that the library is important to the citizens of Tigard.The city's response is to cut the library budget?If Tigard won't honor the values clearly stated by the voters,I'm not sure why the voters should agree to the approaching measure 34-349.Part of the Tigard city community promise is to,"involve all voices in our community while building trusting relationships."I'm not sure this budget proposal keeps that promise. Attachment Thank you, City of Tigard City Cultural Events Name Shaila Kotadia Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City, Zip Code) Which budget item are you commenting on? City cultural events Comments City cultural events are a reason I choose to live in Tigard and makes me feel included as a resident.These allow me to not only participate and meet people with shared values but also to volunteer and give back.If these were to be cut,I would highly consider moving out of Tigard to a city that values its diverse community. Attachment Name Jessica Williams Email Complete Address (Street Name & Number, City,Zip Code) Tigard 97223 Which budget item are you commenting on? Cutting cultural events Comments Hello,I was saddened to hear that with the city's budget cuts the community cultural events that our city loves so much will be eliminated.My family has lived in Tigard since 2019 and we have enjoyed the Pride,Juneteenth,and el Tigre events immensely. would advocate for a way to still hold these and the other important festivals that bring us together while on a reduced budget and hopefully bring them back to full capacity in the future rather than bringing them back from scratch.It is my understanding that the hot air balloon festival would still take place but this event charges an entry fee.This does not seem equitable to those who may not be able to afford that to attend events.I urge you to strongly reconsider cutting our city's cultural events that bring us together and make our city stronger.Thank you. Attachment