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Geneva council backs Bird City Illinois certification and proclaims World Migratory Bird Day
Summary
Council approved a resolution to pursue Bird City Illinois certification and proclaimed Dec. 7 as World Migratory Bird Day; staff and NRC volunteers said the program will support education, native-planting and community events. SPAC agreed to pay the program fee.
The Geneva City Council on Dec. 1 voted to support an application to become a certified Bird City Illinois community and proclaimed Dec. 7, 2025 as World Migratory Bird Day.
"The resolution before the council this evening is a formal follow-up from the Joint Committee of the Whole and Strategic Plan Advisory Council meeting," staff member Miss Voigt said, describing the Bird City criteria—education, events and conservation—and noting SPAC will pay a $200 annual fee. She urged finalizing the application after a weekend bird walk and before the Bird City Illinois board meeting.
Jay Womack, representing the Natural Resources Commission (NRC), said volunteers are planning events to raise awareness and encourage native plantings. "We're a tree city; we're a bird city," Womack said. He described a planned World Bird Day event at the Japanese Garden and urged public participation.
Council members welcomed the application; one member noted Cornell research cited a multi-billion decline in bird populations in North America since 1970 and called local action important. The resolution and proclamation were approved by voice vote.
The NRC plans a public event Dec. 7 and additional educational outreach; staff said further details will be circulated.
