SIDNEY — The Sidney Tree Board discussed updates, but voted on nothing due to lack of member attendance at the December meeting.

Anne Asher was the only boardmember present, along with city staff member, Public Works Administrator Joyce Reier at the recent meeting. Absent were Boardmembers Michael Jannides, Ross Moore and Warren Koogler. There was no motion to excuse those absent as a quorum was not present. However, Brandi Thompson, who will be replacing the outgoing Koogler, was present.

In October, Koogler submitted his letter of resignation to the board due to his scheduled move to Miami County. At the last city council meeting, a resolution was passed appointing Thompson to fill the remaining unexpired term of Koogler’s that will expire on April 30, 2018.

Among old business, Reier reported two hazardous trees had been removed that were on the hazardous tree list at the last meeting.

Pictures were shown of trees being planted that were purchased from the $50,000 DP&L tree grant money awarded to the city. The grant plus an additional $10,000 from the city budget will be used to plant trees downtown and its surrounding blocks, and in city parks where many trees have been removed.

At the last meeting, Reier reported the Lodging Tax grant form had been completed and submitted to the Sidney Lodging Tax Committee, and said she hoped to hear a response by the end of the year. An update was reported that the committee met and applicants will be informed after the first of the year.

Reier also reported the Tree City application was submitted on Nov. 30. She said that spending per capita increased from $3.33 in 2015 to $5.49 for 2016, due to grant funds. The board will be informed in writing if they receive the award for the 28th consecutive year.