The Shade Tree Commission serves as the guardian of our township's tree canopy, ensuring that the benefits of a thriving shade tree canopy exist and endure for our children and generations to come. We've helped Radnor Township earn the prestigious title of "Tree City, USA" by the Arbor Day Foundation whose recognition reflects our commitment to nurturing a thriving urban forest.

One of the most significant contributions is the establishment and maintenance of a Master Shade Tree Plan. This long-term guide charts the course for tree planting throughout the Township, ensuring that trees are strategically placed to maximize their benefits. Annual initiatives include planting an average of 275 new shade trees in township parks, residential streets and commercial zones. In fact, Radnor Township is one of the top recipients of trees from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) each year.

The STC diligently reviews subdivision plans and building applications, ensuring they align with the Township's Shade Tree Ordinance. By doing so, we help maintain a harmonious balance between development and preservation. We adhere to specific formulas that protect the roots of established trees from injury or disturbance, and replacement of trees approved for removal with new trees to offset the loss.

The STC volunteers include a blend of backgrounds, expertise and interests though we share the enthusiasm and commitment to service of our community. The STC exemplifies how a dedicated and diverse group of volunteers can make (and sustain) a positive impact in our community and we invite you and your families to join in this rewarding endeavor. 

Current Members of the Radnor Township Shade Tree Commission

James Gibbons, Chair: James was raised in Garrett Hill and returned with his own family. As a certified Arborist and landscaping company owner, James informs and educates all involved in the Shade Tree Commission’s activities and initiatives. He says, “But most importantly, I have learned so much from my fellow commissioners. Everyone brings something special. My goal is to plant as many trees as possible. Pennsylvania is a woodland area, and planting a tree for the future has so many benefits for the environment, our economy and our overall health.”

Tim Zimmerman, Vice Chair: Tim is a lifelong resident of southeastern PA, born in Warminster and raised in Montgomery county.  In 2020 Tim and his family moved from center city to the mainline where they’ve laid roost in west Wayne.  A first year STC member, Tim is a certified PHS TreeTender and is dedicated to keeping Radnor’s beautiful parks and roadways thriving through canopy maintenance and expansion.  

Matthew Golas: Planning Commission Representative: Matt has served as a bridge between the Shade Tree Commission and the Planning Commission, ensuring that tree preservation is a core consideration in the planning process. His wife Jane previously served on the commission and together they surveyed all of the trees in the township’s “right-of-way” areas. 

Frank Perras: Frank has been a resident of Wayne since 1985.   He came to the commission after answering his door to Lisa Borowski.  Lisa was introducing a candidate for school board at the time.  Conversation turned to volunteering and Lisa suggested the Shade Tree Commission.  Frank likes the collegial and respectful approach the commission takes to residents and developers.  He says, “Even more rewarding is being part of the team organizing our twice per year tree plantings for residents’ homes and in township parks and trails. Over 1000 trees will have been planted as a result of that program.  Frank is a certified PHS TreeTender and serves as the liaison to PHS.

Kristin Scott: Kristin resides in Villanova with a passion for gardening and interests in stormwater management, environmental stewardship, and enhancing and streamlining the process for how the community engages with the committee. Kristin is a certified PHS TreeTender and works at Chanticleer Garden

Eugenia Warnock: Eugenia has been a resident of Radnor Township for 40 years. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and is currently working towards a Master of Environmental Studies focused on Urban Forestry. She has been awarded internships in Wastewater Operations, Land Conservation/Stewardship and the Urban Forestry internship at the Morris Arboretum. Eugenia is also an Advanced Tree Tender, and studying for the ISA Certified Arborist examination. One of her goals as a Shade Tree Commissioner is to increase community support of a robust tree canopy, and understanding of the positive impact it has on our residents.

Kristin Henry: Protecting the environment has been Kristin’s lifelong passion. She studied environmental policy and analysis at school and has worked for the past 25 years as an attorney at a national environmental organization. Kristin moved to Wayne four years ago and is excited to give back to her community. Trees increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, and deliver critical ecosystem services—like carbon storage and air pollution removal. Kristin is honored to serve to protect this valuable resource for Radnor Township.