Commissioner Jennifer Hamilton proposes 'Leave the Leaves' fall education campaign

Commissioner Jennifer Hamilton asked the commission to add a fall public-education campaign to next month's agenda to encourage residents to leave fallen leaves on their lawns to enrich soil and provide habitat for pollinators.

"I did want to add something for... a public education campaign for fall so we can encourage residents to leave fallen leaves on their yards," Hamilton said, noting the timing would align with fall yard-care schedules. She suggested the campaign could mirror seasonal campaigns like "No Mow Till Mother's Day" and emphasized both environmental benefits and reduced time spent bagging leaves.

Commissioners reacted positively and agreed to place the item on the next agenda so the commission can develop materials and timing that align with village communications and any broader 'keep Villa Park clean' efforts.