Cleaning up Cape

The city of Cape Girardeau is taking a step forward in its efforts to address litter and help with beautification efforts around town.

Public works director Tim Gramling announced recently that Operation Clean Sweep will help with maintenance issues and clean up areas. The three-pronged program includes the following:

1) City employees keep an eye out for issues along rights of way. If employees can address the cleanup within their capabilities, they are encouraged to do so. Otherwise they are to report the issues to the public works department.

2) Employees working away from the public works department are encouraged to look at the site they are working on before leaving to notice any work that needs to be completed.

3) Three crews of eight to 12 people will be assigned to an area of the city, pick up trash, take care of weeds, paint where necessary and take note of other maintenance issues.

We're pleased the city is making an effort to enhance beautification efforts and without the need of additional personnel.

Those who would like to participate in the city's "adopt-a-street" program, which helps keep specific streets free of litter, may call the public works department at 339-6351. This also is the number to call if you need to report a maintenance issue.

It's important to keep Cape Girardeau in good shape and free of litter and to provide an inviting atmosphere for visitors and residents alike. Thank you to the residents and business owners who do good work in beautifying their properties and to the city employees for their efforts.