This proposal was presented to City Council several weeks ago by Fran Bottone. Further suggestions and support can be shared with Fran at bottonesjbc@yahoo.com or in the comments of this post.
‘Citywide Spring Cleanup Proposal’
Goal: To enact an extensive spring cleanup with the cooperation of the city, its departments and the local media, then capitalize on the cities "clean" status, to keep it that way.
The logical city department (in my opinion) to assist, would be the city fire department. This could be an extension of their role in protecting public health and safety, and would be excellent for public relations. Some ideas; "Deputize" rank and file firemen to help the existing code enforcement officers do their jobs, or promote a couple of more men to that position. It is obvious the city needs some help in this area. Small groups of firemen could "adopt" certain neighborhoods and report problem areas.
The local media could also play and important role, some ideas; The Bradford Era should bring back its "eyes on blight" series. The Era could also run a cover story about the cleanup, and provide a citizens reminder list of the most commonly violated ordinances. Unregistered vehicles in lawns, appliances in yards and on porches, construction debris piles around houses, and just plain garbage are just a few that come to mind.
If people knew the city was going to aggressively enforce their ordinances they would think twice.
The police department should continue enforcing the curfew and step up its patrols in back areas and streets. The graffiti has to be eliminated before it gets any worse and quality of life issues like barking dogs and loud vehicles and music are very important issues that come with the warmer weather.
Landlords; it shouldn’t matter if you own one property or 20, the same standards should apply, if you cant afford to maintain what you have, don’t buy anymore!
Civic pride needs to start somewhere, and this new administration with its new police and fire chiefs seems like the right place, and our approaching spring season seems like the right time. Lets make the old adage "a new broom sweeps clean" a Riel one! I would appreciate the mayors and aforementioned department heads’ opinion on this matter at the next council meeting.
Thank You,
Fran Bottone
146 Chestnut Street