The Johnny Appleseed Street Tree Project began in 1976 in an effort to support Oakwood’s commitment to urban forestry and the environment. To date, this program has been responsible for planting 3,323 trees. The highlights of the program include: the cost of the selected species are discounted 50% to Oakwood residents and trees must be planted in the city right-of-way; species of trees will be 1 3/4” in diameter and are excellent for planting; the most needy areas of Oakwood, as determined by the city, will be given first priority; tree species selected are well-suited for planting and most are resistant to disease; and, the trees will be guaranteed for one growing season by the nursery that plants them. Oakwood was recognized as being a Tree City USA for 46 years. Ms. Collins displayed pictures of the different trees offered in 2024.
On Sunday, August 18, the city had a special event and blanket concert at Smith Gardens to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Oakwood receiving Smith Memorial Gardens as a gift from Mr. & Mrs. Carlton W. Smith.
Ms. Collins reviewed the following upcoming events: Holiday Festival of Trees Auction on Friday, November 15 from 6 to 8 p.m.; Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 7 from 9 to 11:30 a.m.; Lighting Up Oakwood/Holiday of Lights on Sunday, December 8 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Shafor Park; and the Candy Cane Hunt in Shafor Park on Saturday, December 14 from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m.
Mrs. Turben asked how many trees are in Oakwood.
Ms. Collins said that there are approximately 9,000 known or recorded trees that are maintained by the city.
Mr. Stephens thanked Ms. Collins and her staff for continuing to coordinate successful events for the community.
CITY MANAGER’S COMMENTS
Mrs. Smiddy reported that the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on Thursday, November 14 has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items. The next regularly scheduled meeting is at 4.30 p.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2024.
Mrs. Smiddy recognized and wished the Oakwood employees born in November a happy birthday.
Mrs. Smiddy thanked Mr. Klopsch for helping to make the city manager transition as seamless as possible.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mrs. Jackson shared that tomorrow is election day and encouraged people to celebrate democracy and civic engagement. She encouraged people vote and thanked all of the poll workers.
Mrs. Turben welcomed Mrs. Smiddy to her first council meeting. She recognized how Halloween is a fun and welcoming event in Oakwood.
Mr. Stephens congratulated Captain Benson on his well-deserved promotion.
Vice Mayor Byington shared that he and his wife participated in a CPR training led by Lieutenant Baggett offered at the Oakwood Community Center. He said it was a great class and encouraged people to attend. He encouraged everyone to vote and then follow how the elected candidate is doing their job. He also asked people to be respectful to poll workers.
Mayor Duncan shared that former City Council member Richard Killworth passed away last month.
The public meeting concluded at 8:21 p.m.
