Growing Native Habitat Lake Bluff wins committee recommendation for village support

The Lake Bluff Sustainability and Environmental Committee voted to recommend village support for Growing Native Habitat Lake Bluff, a community effort seeking National Wildlife Federation certification.

Presenters Sue Raymore and Anne Verdebeck described the project’s goals — reducing pesticide and neonicotinoid use, increasing native plantings, certifying homes under the National Wildlife Federation Community Wildlife Habitat program and community education at the farmers market. Raymore said the group has completed registration and was “5 points away from the administration” category needed for certification and planned in-person outreach at the farmers market beginning June 6.

The presenters asked for either a village proclamation or a letter of support to include in brochures the group planned to distribute at the farmers market. Staff (Clara) said proclamations are typically issued by the village president and that a letter of support might be the faster option; she offered to follow up on the exact process. Committee members discussed whether additional letters or proclamations would add points toward the National Wildlife Federation certification; presenters said they were unsure of exact point values and that village support primarily helps with outreach and recognition.

After discussion, the committee approved a motion recommending that the village president and board support the efforts of Growing Native Habitat Lake Bluff. The recorded votes were in favor from Member Hance, Member Manglecock, Member Buscio and Member Cole; the motion passed. Presenters and staff said they would follow up about the preferred form (letter or proclamation) and timing so the group could include village support in promotional materials before the farmer’s market date.