An annual cleanup day and a commitment to keeping the community green have earned Mokena a designation as a Tree City USA, trustees learned this week.
The town is among 180 chosen by the National Arbor Foundation as a Tree City for 2005.
To qualify, communities have to satisfy four conditions: maintaining a department responsible for tree care; passing a tree ordinance; establishing a forestry plan funded with at least $2 per capita; and observing Arbor Day, which Mokena does with a villagewide cleanup in April.
Public Works Director Lou Tiberi said the commitment to greenery improves the village’s public image as well as upgrading appearance and environment.
The village has received a flag and also some signs to post at entrance points, Tiberi said.
He singled out Lorrie Cervenik, a member of Mokena’s Public Affairs Commission, for her effort in securing the Tree City title.
Trustee John Mazzorana, serving as mayor pro-tem while Mayor Joe Werner is attending a retail development convention, said Mokena’s tree program, which offers residents a discount when they buy trees for their property from local landscapers, is a strong indicator of the town’s environmental awareness.
About 20 to 25 people have taken advantage of the program in the past year, Tiberi said.
