Hinsdale honors longtime superintendent of forestry John Finenel at board meeting

The Hinsdale Village Board honored John Finenel, superintendent of forestry and grounds, at its regular meeting with a proclamation recognizing nearly two decades of service to the village.

President Greg Hart read the proclamation noting Finenel's leadership of forestry operations, tree planting and pruning, park maintenance and the village's response to severe weather; the proclamation cited oversight of approximately 14,771 public trees and credited Finenel with advancing integrated pest-management reporting and stewardship of the urban canopy.

Multiple trustees offered personal remarks thanking Finenel for his service, recalling public outreach events, educational presentations and responsiveness to resident inquiries about trees. Trustee Fischer recalled personal assistance with a maple tree and praised community programs Finenel led; Manager Gano highlighted Finenel's depth of technical knowledge and leadership of public services staff.

Trustees presented Finenel with a small commemorative tree and invited a photo. Finenel thanked the board and residents, calling his years in Hinsdale a "wonderful ride" and expressing confidence in staff continuity.

The recognition highlights the village's reliance on its forestry program for park upkeep, storm response and neighborhood tree stewardship; staff noted plans for continued program leadership as Finenel transitions to retirement.