In the heart of Staunton City Hall, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the Staunton City Council convened for their regular meeting on April 24, 2025. The evening began with a moment of reflection led by Vice Mayor Arrowood, who called for wisdom and guidance in the discussions that would shape the community's future.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the celebration of Arbor Day, proclaimed for April 25, 2025. Mayor Edwards read a heartfelt proclamation recognizing the importance of trees in enhancing the environment and community well-being. This year, Staunton proudly celebrated its 29th designation as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. The council urged residents to participate in tree-planting efforts, emphasizing the role of trees in reducing erosion, improving air quality, and beautifying the city.

The council also honored the Shenandoah Green organization for its remarkable efforts in the Stanton Legacy Tree Project, which saw the planting of 2,746 trees across the city. This initiative, inspired by former Mayor Carolyn Lehi, aimed to plant one tree for every school child in the district. The project not only beautified the community but also fostered a sense of environmental stewardship among residents.

In addition to Arbor Day, the council proclaimed May 10, 2025, as "Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day." This initiative, part of a nationwide effort, encourages residents to donate nonperishable food items to support local food banks. The council recognized the dedication of letter carriers and community volunteers who work tirelessly to combat hunger in Staunton.

As the meeting progressed, Mayor Edwards shared updates on various city departments, highlighting their achievements and ongoing projects. The Staunton Police Department responded to over 2,600 calls for service in March, while the Fire and Rescue team maintained impressive response times. The council members expressed pride in the city's commitment to public safety and community service.

Councilor Oberholtzer took a moment to commend the collaborative efforts of local organizations and schools in creating an outdoor classroom resource at Staunton High School. This project, supported by the Rotary Club and local garden clubs, exemplifies the community's dedication to environmental education and stewardship.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council approved the consent agenda, ensuring the smooth continuation of city operations. With a sense of accomplishment and community spirit, the Staunton City Council left the meeting, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for their beloved city.