Last year, the Village of Montgomery was designated a Green Power Community, Lead-Free, and a Tree City USA. In 2022, the Village strives for greener and sustainable environmental practices. It is encouraging residents to join them with this year's initiatives, including the Rain Barrel Program in partnership with the Conservation Foundation, the Arbor Day Tree Dedication & Giveaway, and the High School Street Art Program in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Montgomery.
In 2021, the Village of Montgomery received the distinction Green Power Community by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recognized as one of 100 EPA Green Power Communities across 14 states who collectively use more than 8.4 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power by way of local government, business, and residential use. Additionally, the Village achieved the high distinction of being a lead-free community receiving recognition from the American Public Works Association and the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois for their dedication and commitment to removing all lead water service lines from its water distribution system. Finally, Montgomery was again deemed a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for the fifth year in the row, which requires communities to fulfill a four-step framework dedicated to urban forestry and trees to qualify.
While the Village continues to strive for national green recognition such as those received in 2021, this year, they are focusing closer to home and encouraging residents to participate in three conservation-focused programs geared towards all ages.
- In partnership with the Conservation Foundation, the Village's Rain Barrel Program will kick off on April 1. Residents or local community members can purchase a rain barrel and accessories through the Village website through third-party UpCycle Products. A variety of options and colors are available. The barrels can be delivered to homes or businesses for an additional fee or picked up from Village Hall on Friday, May 20, between the hours of 10A-5P. Registration information at montgomeryil.org/554/Rain-Barrel-Program
- On April 30 at 10A, the Montgomery Beautification Committee will dedicate the 2022 tree, the White Fringe, at the future site of the Arboretum Garden in front of the Montgomery Police Department (10 Civic Circle Dr.). Following a short tree planting ceremony to honor Arbor Day, Montgomery's Municipal Arborist, Ed Pfaff, will be onsite to answer questions community members may have about planting trees or native plants in their yards and preparing for the spring/summer season. All ages are welcome to the event, and it is perfect for scout groups looking for environmentally-focused activities in April. Attendees get the chance to win one of fifty 18" White Fringe mature tree saplings sponsored by the Village of Montgomery. More information on the event is available on the Village website or Facebook page.
- The Rotary Club of Montgomery and the Village are additionally sponsoring a High School Street Art Contest through April 22. The groups are seeking art submissions focused on conservation and the environment. Prizes awarded for the top three finishers and the 1st place artist will have their art replicated and painted outside Village Hall along River Street for all to see. The contest is open to all local high school students and not limited only to Montgomery residents. Student artists can find more information on the Rotary Club of Montgomery Facebook page or the Village of Montgomery website, montgomeryil.org.
Additional information on the Village’s green initiatives past or present can be found on the Village website, montgomeryil.org
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ABOUT THE VILLAGE OF MONTGOMERY, IL
Located in northern Illinois, 40 miles southwest of Chicago and due south of Aurora, the Village of Montgomery is home to more than 20,000 residents. Nestled along the banks of the Fox River in Kane and Kendall counties, Montgomery encompasses the charm of a small town with the access and regional connectivity of a large city. Founded in 1835, rich with history and possibility, the rural suburb of Montgomery, Illinois, is a fantastic community to raise a family, chase business dreams, and revel in the beauty of native Illinois. For more information, please visit montgomeryil.org.
Village of Montgomery | 200 N. River Rd., Montgomery, IL 60538
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