Kenosha Reporter

The city of Kenosha has announced it is accepting applications for the fall planting of replacement trees in parkway areas between sidewalks and curbs.

According to a press release, residents in Kenosha who had a tree removed from the parkway within the past five years may be eligible to receive a replacement tree through the city’s Reforestation Program. To apply, residents must contact the Department of Parks and request to be added to the Reforestation Program List. A staff member will inspect the property to confirm eligibility and determine how many trees can be planted.

If approved, residents will receive a mailed list of available tree species and must select their preferred option and return the completed order form. The cost is $50 per tree, which includes planting and tax. Planting occurs between October and November, with trees distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. If a site is not eligible, residents will be notified with the reason for ineligibility.

The City of Kenosha’s Parks Department manages over 70 public parks and conservation areas across roughly 1,000 acres. It offers services such as athletics programs, facility rentals, forestry, and recreational amenities including pools, golf courses, and playgrounds. Current updates include an open request for proposals to lease and operate the Southport Beach House; the planned April 11, 2025 opening of Washington Park Golf Course; ongoing construction at Horizon Park; and temporary closure of Pennoyer Park’s tennis and pickleball courts due to fence damage.

Kenosha operates under a Common Council system consisting of the mayor and 17 alderpersons, each representing a district for a two-year term. The city traces its origins to an 1835 settlement established by John Bullen under the Western Emigration Company. Initially named Southport before adopting its current name in 1850, Kenosha's municipal government oversees various departments including public works, transit, fire and police services, parks, housing, maintaining ordinances, and city planning efforts.