(Atlantic, Iowa) – The Mayor of Atlantic issued the Oath of Office this (Wednesday) evening, to the City’s newest Police Officer. The Oath was administered by Mayor Grace Garrett, to Officer Kelby Smith, after the Mayor provided a brief bio of the latest addition to the police force.

Mayor Garret issues the Oath of Office to Officer Kelby Smith

After he was sworn-in, the Mayor introduced local Trees Forever representative Dolly Bergmann, prior to the the issuance of a proclamation for an Arbor Day designation. Bergmann explained what the honor of being a Tree City USA means.

To qualify as a Tree City USA, the City must have: A Tree Board of Department; A Tree Care Ordinance; An annual forestry budget of at least $2.00 per capita, and an Arbor Day Observance and Proclamation.

Bergmann said also, Trees Forever received a grant from Alliant Energy for $3,000, which means the addition of more trees to an Atlantic Recreation Area.

Local Trees Forever Representative Dolly Bergmann

She said they welcome volunteers to the Schildberg Recreation Area to help plant trees near the campground, on or about June 7th. The City has offered to help dig the holes for the new trees.