The Charlotte City Council approved a citywide zoning ordinance amendment to establish the Tree Preservation Overlay (TPO) district. This decision modifies various sections of the existing Zoning Ordinance, specifically relating to tree preservation, planting, and protection, as well as associated definitions. The amendment also rezones all properties currently situated within the Charlotte Tree Ordinance jurisdiction to be included under the new Tree Preservation Overlay District. This comprehensive update aims to strengthen environmental protections and ensure the long-term health and expansion of the city's urban tree canopy. The petitioner for this initiative was the City of Charlotte itself, with Leslie Kelly from the Planning, Design & Development Department serving as the staff contact. This approval signifies a significant regulatory enhancement for land use across Charlotte.