November 21, 2012 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 7 Ho-Ho-Kus Tree planting project now under way in borough by Jennifer Crusco A delivery of new trees arrived in Ho-Ho-Kus in late October, just prior to Hurricane Sandy’s arrival, and those trees are now being planted in various locations throughout the borough. The planting project, which began on Election Day while the borough was still recovering from the storm that left many residents without power or heat, is now progressing apace. The New Jersey Tree Foundation of Jackson is planting the trees, which were supplied by Plant Detectives of Chester, New Jersey. This project was spearheaded by the Ho-Ho-Kus Shade Tree Commission, which recently received the Ho-Ho-Kus Council’s approval to use $3,705 from the Ross Shade Tree Trust Fund to cover the professional fees associated with this project. The commission had hired William R. Comery to investigate, evaluate, and make recommendations for the purchase and planting of the trees. Comery prepared specifications and sought quotes from tree nurseries and landscapers who would install the plantings. He also pledged to help establish a planting timetable, and provide inspections of the trees. In addition, he is responsible for keeping the commission apprised of the project’s progress. At the September public council meeting, Shade Tree Commission Chairman Frank Grieder and Commissioners Kim Mitchell and Chris Raimondi outlined the organization’s plans. Grieder noted that several years ago, the Janet Ross family provided money to be used for the beautification of the borough. That money is available through the Ross Shade Tree Fund, and the commission was seeking the council’s approval to use the money for the plantings. Grieder said the commission had received favorable prices for the new trees, noting that the actual bids were $5,000 to $6,000 below the estimated cost. Because the bids were much lower than anticipated, the commission was able to purchase additional trees, bringing the number of plantings to approximately 120. The varieties of trees being planted include pin oaks, lindens, and honey locusts. In September, Mitchell explained that the pin oaks would be planted where they would not interfere with overhead wires. She also noted that the new trees would be planted with an eye toward providing additional shade along the borough’s parade route, which includes North Franklin Turnpike. Mitchell indicated that some of the trees would be planted in areas where people have been requesting them. The commission will supply residents with tags that contain care information for each tree that is planted.