West Cook News

In Cicero, Town President Larry Dominick planted a young tree in the neighborhood to mark Earth Day. This event was part of a broader initiative, the free tree program available to Cicero residents. President Dominick highlighted the program's environmental benefits: "This helps the air quality and all of it," he said. "We cut down trees that are dead so they don’t fall on cars or houses. But a nice young tree like that—let’s hope it lives 50, 100 years. We’re planting trees all over."

The tree initiative is backed partly by grant funding and aims to enhance the community's aesthetic while addressing environmental issues such as stormwater absorption and the urban heat effect. President Dominick emphasized the importance of trees in managing flooding during Cicero’s heavy storms: "People like flowers and trees. A mixed area just looks better. We’re here to make this town the best we can."

Town Clerk Maria Punzo-Arias and Town Trustee Victor Garcia were present, reinforcing the program's significance. Punzo-Arias remarked, "It’s a special day because not only is it Earth Day, but it’s important that we continue to have programs like this. Trees are vital—they produce oxygen, provide shade, help with heating and cooling costs, and most importantly, they absorb water. With the flooding issues we’ve experienced in Cicero, it’s essential to replace any trees that are removed due to disease or age." She encouraged residents to participate in the program: "Know that we’re here to work together and to serve our community."

Trustee Garcia highlighted the need for trees in some neighborhoods: "You can see the empty spots on this block. We need more trees, not just here but across the whole town. Everything is positive when you have a tree in front of your house. We want residents to know they can call us directly so we can follow up and make sure they get their tree."

The effort underscores a renewed dedication to environmental sustainability and community involvement in Cicero. Through this program, the town aims to foster growth not just in trees, but also in community pride and connection.