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Trustee says Franklin Park is advising neighbors on non-pesticide practices; board discusses pilot invasive-tree removal and seminar plans
Summary
Trustee Karen Special reported neighboring towns are seeking Franklin Park's guidance on non-pesticide practices. The commission discussed a pilot to remove invasive trees and replace them with native species and confirmed an October seminar speaker on composting.
Trustee Karen Special told the Tree Preservation Commission on April 21 that other communities have reached out to Franklin Park seeking guidance on non-pesticide and pollinator-friendly practices, and she asked that outreach emphasize pesticide impacts on both pollinators and human health.
Andy Smolen reported that nearby communities, including Wood Dale and Norridge, have sought assistance—Wood Dale on becoming a Bee City USA community and Norridge on holding an Arbor Day celebration. Smolen also said Earth Day attendance was low, likely because of cold weather, but that five homeowners signed up for the commission's free-tree program at the event.
The commission discussed a pilot program to remove invasive tree species and replace them with fast-growing, non-invasive varieties. Member Violet Pamintuan suggested planting native, pollinator-beneficial species along King Street that tolerate full sun and can provide a windbreak for bee hives.
On seminar planning, Member Ramona Michael reported that Adam Schwartz of The Urban Canopy has agreed to present on composting at a seminar scheduled Oct. 17, 2026. The commission is still seeking an in-person presenter on municipal mosquito spraying; Xerces offered a virtual presentation but said it could not provide an in-person expert.
A resident from 3400 Louis Street provided a wreath to the committee in appreciation for its work; the commission said the wreath will be displayed at future events.
