Clinton Shade Tree Commission outlines 2026 work plan, sets Arbor Day dedication

The Town of Clinton Shade Tree Commission on Feb. 19 reviewed its 2026 work plan, including timing for a town-wide tree inventory, budget planning, Arbor Day preparations and tree removals.

John Kashwick, the council liaison, said the municipal budget will be completed in about a week, signaling an April decision window for commission budget items tied to the inventory. The commission noted that the Tree Inventory 2026 budget will be decided in April, aligning that project with the municipality’s budget timeline.

Denise Birmingham, the commission’s Environmental Commission liaison, outlined Arbor Day plans. She said Arbor Day is scheduled for April 24 at 10 a.m., there are 53 third graders expected to participate, and she will order saplings from the Arbor Day Foundation. The commission plans to dedicate the Arbor Day tree to Ceil Covino and is finalizing the planting location, tree selection and a plaque; Denise said she contacted Janice and Rich to coordinate logistics.

Commission members also discussed recent tree takedowns and plans for a memorial tree to replace a cherry tree on Main Street; takedown work appeared to be occurring during the week of the meeting. The commission noted two completed membership applications and agreed to pursue website improvements to make Shade Tree resources easier to find, including adding a public request form (the Cranford Shade Tree Commission site was cited as an example). No formal votes or motions were recorded in the transcript.

The commission set its next meeting for Thursday, March 19, at 7:30 p.m.