Welcome Letter

Welcome to Paramus,

            My name is Kenneth Raschen I am the Superintendent of the Paramus Shade Tree and Parks Department. We have prepared a brief history of our Shade Tree Commission along with some information regarding the responsibilities of the Shade Tree & Parks Department along with frequently asked questions about Town Trees and other Shade Tree programs, policies, and procedures.

            Our department is responsible for the planting of all new street trees and the care and maintenance of over 35,000 existing street trees.  We also maintain the trees and planted areas, including lawns, at all Borough Parks and Borough Buildings.

            As you read thru the packet you will see that there are several parks that have one or more athletic fields. These fields are maintained and lined as needed for Lacrosse, softball, baseball both little league and Babe Ruth, football and soccer based upon the schedules supplied from the Recreation Commission.

            The full time staff of the Shade Tree & Parks Department currently has 25 employees that follow and enforce the policies and procedures of the Board of Shade Tree Commissioners. The Board of Shade Tree Commissioners is a seven person volunteer board of Paramus residents appointed by the Mayor.

            Should you have a question regarding the Shade Tree Department or its operations not answered in the attached information packet our staff will be pleased to provide an answer or assistance to you. You may contact us at our main phone number 201-265-2100 xtn 4120 or our e-mail at shadetree@paramusborough.org.

            If a town tree or trees in the planting easement in front of your home require any attention please use the above information to contact us then a service request will be prepared, your concern accessed by one of our staff and a note explaining the course of action will be left in your mailbox.

            Again Welcome to Paramus

                    Kenneth Raschen

Superintendent Paramus Shade Tree & Parks