Community Profile

Pledge Status

Active

Pledge Date

Monday, March 23, 2026

Program Year

2026

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Action Item Report

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Village of Johnsburg

Johnsburg, IL

Edwin Hettermann

Village President

Pledge Summary

The Village of Johnsburg is a beautiful, quaint, and thriving community that warmly welcomes all to the neighborhood; monarchs included, now for the fifth consecutive year. Located approximately seven miles from the Wisconsin border, Johnsburg offers convenient access to both Chicago and Milwaukee, making it highly desirable for those seeking a more rural lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to employment, shopping, dining, and essential services. There is truly something for everyone in our Village. From the scenic views along Pistakee Lake and well-maintained parks offering a variety of recreational opportunities, to relaxing afternoons spent with family and friends, Johnsburg is a place you’ll be proud to call home. With a population of around 6,400 residents, our community fosters meaningful connections and the opportunity to build lasting friendships. As Johnsburg continues to grow both economically and recreationally, we remain committed to preserving our heritage, maintaining our connection to nature, and upholding our strong hometown values. Village President Edwin P. Hettermann and Trustee/Development & Government Affairs Chair Keith Von Allmen have reaffirmed their commitment to environmental stewardship by signing the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge for the fifth consecutive year. This initiative supports efforts to protect monarch butterflies and other vital pollinators while encouraging residents to establish and maintain pollinator-friendly habitats throughout the Village. Additional environmentally conscious efforts include the adoption of “No Mow May,” a growing initiative designed to support early-season pollinators and emerging insect populations by allowing natural lawn growth during the critical spring period.

Community Spotlight

Action Items Committed for 2026

Communications and Convening

  • Issue a proclamation to raise awareness about the decline of the monarch butterfly and the species’ need for habitat. This proclamation must incorporate a focus on monarch conservation.
  • Engage with community garden groups and urge them to plant native milkweeds and nectar-producing plants.
  • Engage with city parks and recreation, public works, sustainability, and other relevant staff to identify opportunities to revise and maintain mowing programs and milkweed / native nectar plant planting programs.

Program and Demonstration Gardens

  • Host or support a native seed or plant sale, giveaway or swap.
  • Plant or maintain a monarch and pollinator-friendly demonstration garden at City Hall or another prominent or culturally significant community location.
  • Convert vacant lots to monarch habitat.
  • Add or maintain native milkweed and nectar-producing plants in gardens in the community.