The proposed resolution, known as the Parkside Canopy Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025, seeks to address an urgent need to amend the Urban Forest Preservation Amendment Act of 2002. Specifically, it aims to exempt Heritage Trees located in Lots 865, 866, 867, 868, and 869 of Square 5056 from the removal requirements set forth by the Act. This exemption is deemed necessary to facilitate ongoing transit-oriented economic development initiatives in the Parkside community of Ward 7, which include the construction of approximately 209 units of affordable housing and retail spaces, such as a grocery store.

The resolution highlights that the Parkside development has already contributed to the community by creating a new tree-lined buffer and park, which provides green space and amenities that can help mitigate the impact of removing the Heritage Trees. The Council recognizes the urgency of this situation, determining that emergency legislation is required to support the economic development efforts in the area. As such, the resolution calls for the immediate adoption of the Parkside Canopy Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 after a single reading.