February 2025 Online Candidate Forum
RESPONSE
[Disclaimer: The Berwyn Tree Canopy Initiative (BTCI) is a non-political community group. We do not support or endorse and political candidates. Any views expressed on this website by candidates are not necessarily the views of BTCI, and should not be attributed to BTCI.]
Q1: What is your vision for a healthy Berwyn? What are the key components of your vision and how would you support them? You may want to address people, neighborhoods, and the environment, as well as the role of equity, communication, and education and how you plan to respond to input from residents.
My vision for the 4th Ward is to create a greener, healthier community by improving small green spaces, supporting community gardens, and engaging with residents on environmental issues. While space is limited in the 4th, small changes can make a big impact on air quality, heat reduction, flood control, and overall well-being.
One key focus is adding more trees and green spaces. We can transform vacant lots, parkways, and unused corners into mini-parks, pollinator gardens, and shaded areas. Planting more trees will beautify our ward, improve air quality, and reduce urban heat. Green spaces also help absorb rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding in our neighborhoods. Permeable surfaces like rain gardens and native plantings can prevent water from overwhelming our streets and sewers.
Another priority is expanding community gardens. These spaces give residents a chance to grow fresh food, connect with neighbors, and learn about sustainability. I will work with local groups to create more gardening opportunities, provide resources, and support those who want to get involved.
Regular community check-ins will ensure we address residents’ needs. I propose quarterly meetings or surveys to gather feedback and discuss green initiatives. We can also host “Environmental Health Days” where experts share tips on clean air, energy savings, and sustainable living.
To make this happen, I will advocate for city funding and policies that support tree planting, green infrastructure, and flood prevention solutions. I would review the Complete Streets Plan, the Stormwater Management Plan, and Comprehensive City Plan to assess the progress in accomplishing our goals.
A greener 4th Ward means cleaner air, cooler streets, less flooding, and a stronger sense of community. With small but meaningful efforts, we can make our neighborhood a healthier place to live for everyone.
Q2: The City of Berwyn’s Urban Forestry Management Plan sets a goal of increasing tree canopy coverage from 20.91% (as of 2022) to 23% by 2032. If elected, what would you do to ensure this and other goals of the Plan are met?
We need to plant more trees and care for the ones we have in accordance with Berwyn’s Urban Forestry Management Plan. I will work with the city to prioritize planting in areas with low canopy coverage, ensuring we choose the right trees for each space. I will also push for dedicated funding for tree maintenance and disease prevention to protect our existing trees.
Community involvement is key. I encourage programs like a Tree Adoption Program, where residents can plant and care for trees on their property. Hosting tree care workshops and starting a “Green Block Program” will encourage neighbors to plant and maintain trees together.
Trees also help with stormwater management. Planting more trees, along with rain gardens and permeable surfaces, will help reduce flooding and improve water absorption in the 4th Ward and throughout Berwyn.
To fund these efforts, I will seek grants from state and federal programs and partner with environmental organizations and businesses to expand tree-planting events.
By investing in trees and engaging the community, we can exceed the 23% canopy goal and create a cooler, healthier, and more flood-resilient Berwyn for future generations.
Q3: Flooding is a big concern for many residents and with a warming climate we know to expect more extreme weather events. If elected, what would you do to decrease flooding and ensure our community is ready for a changing climate?
Flooding is a major issue in Berwyn, and with a warming climate causing more extreme weather, we must take action to reduce flood risks and make our community more resilient. If elected, I will focus on green infrastructure, stormwater upgrades, and public education to tackle this issue.
One of the best ways to manage flooding is by expanding green spaces. I will advocate for more trees, rain gardens, and permeable surfaces to absorb stormwater. Homeowners should be encouraged—not penalized—for planting native gardens, which help soak up rainwater, support pollinators, and reduce the need for mowing. We need to end blighting and ticketing homeowners for native gardens and instead educate residents and the city on their benefits.
Upgrading stormwater infrastructure is also essential. I will push for sewer system improvements, better alley drainage, and increased collaboration with MWRD to implement long-term water management solutions. Simple home solutions like rain barrels and sump pumps should be encouraged and supported through city programs.
Education is key. Many residents don’t realize how climate change impacts flooding. I will promote workshops and community programs that teach climate changes in our area, stormwater management, native plants, and flood prevention. When people understand the problem, they are better equipped to be part of the solution.
Berwyn Tree Canopy Initiative | Berwyn, Illinois 