Dear Neighborhood Leader:

2008 saw another first for the neighborhood cleanup program. For the first time in the history of the program, we ran out of available dates for “first cleanups”. There were more “new” neighborhoods that participated in the program this year. Because of that, there were no second cleanups available, and a few neighborhoods were not able to get a cleanup spot this year.

Because of the increase in participation, it is even more important that your neighborhood group plans your event early. It will be necessary to prioritize the areas chosen for the cleanup (many large neighborhoods have been doing this for years). In 2009, you should expect to have only one cleanup date available to you.

Cleanups range from small (one to two block) cleanups to large-scale, neighborhood-wide cleanups. A maximum of 3 cleanups (2 large and 1 small) will be scheduled per weekend.

In order to maintain a well-organized, fair, process, we will be accepting applications after January 1, 2009. We are requesting that any neighborhood association wishing to have a cleanup, submit their request by February 15, 2009. Neighborhood associations requesting a cleanup by that date will receive a cleanup, and will have a greater chance of getting their preferred date. While we will accept applications after that date, the later the application is received, the less likely the chances that a clean up date will be available.

Additional clean-ups will be scheduled depending on availability and upon the order of requests submitted. Please indicate if your neighborhood would like a second clean-up when you complete the attached application form. Bear in mind that a second date will likely not be possible.

We will again be offering a brief training session for neighborhoods planning a cleanup. The cleanup training will be held in March. The date and location of the training will be announced in the near future.

As Usual, no cleanups will be scheduled on Holiday weekends or during River Festival. Therefore, the only dates available in May are the 2nd and 30th. In 2009, cleanup season will run between March 28 and November 14.

If you have any questions please feel free to call me at 268-4481. I look forward to working with you next year. Have a safe and happy Holiday!

Best Regards

Deb Legge
Neighborhood Inspection Administrator/OCI Clean-up Coordinator