Green Oakwood posed the same six sustainability focused questions to our City Council candidates. We are posting the Questions and Answers weekly, verbatim from our candidates, so you may get to know their knowledge, experience and positions on topics that may be important to you, your family, and our community.
Question #3: How do you plan to support native plant landscaping and pollinator protection?
Answer from Candidate Leigh Turben
- Incorporate the planting of native plants and trees on city-owned property.
- Include more native trees in the Johnny Appleseed Program.
- Support Green Oakwood’s mission to educate residents on the benefits and care of natural landscapes.
- Lead by Example–Today the Turben landscape includes native plants such as Cone Flowers, Black-eyed Susans, Phlox, Bee Balm, and Butterfly Bush for pollination.
Answer from Candidate Sam Dorf
The pollinator garden at Wright Library is a model of how we can work collaboratively to make Oakwood more beautiful and more sustainable for the future. As part of a new comprehensive city sustainability plan, I would support the phased reduction of non-native species in public parks and investment in new native flora and pollinator gardens. As I mentioned in my previous answer, I would also love to see a new award category for the Oakwood Beautification Committee that recognized sustainable practices including excellence in planting native plants and pollinator gardens.
Answer from Candidate Sarena Kelley
Supporting native plant landscaping starts with education and leadership. I will advocate for:
- City-sponsored demonstration gardens using native plants and pollinator-supportive designs, especially in public parks and municipal grounds.
- Updating city landscaping standards to encourage native, drought-tolerant species that reduce maintenance and support biodiversity.
- Workshops and resources for residents on sustainable yard care, native planting, and pollinator habitats—making these options approachable and visually appealing for our community.
- Recognition and incentive programs (through the Beautification Committee and Oakwood Tax Credits) for residents and businesses who use native and pollinator-friendly practices, removal of invasive species, as well as sustainable practices in building, renovating, and maintaining our historic homes.