Results from the 2012 Yakima Citizen Survey clearly revealed an expectation that the City of Yakima should be more proactively involved in improving the overall appearance of the community. As part of its multi-pronged approach to meet that expectation, the City is spearheading a series community clean up events this year. The first two community clean up events on March 9th in the West Valley area and March 30th at Yakima Valley Community College yielded 18.5 tons of debris. This year’s clean ups will rotate between each of the Yakima's four City Council districts. This Saturday’s event will target District 3, which consists primarily of the northeast and southeast sections of the city. A free drop off site will be open from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm in the parking lot across from the Yakima Police Department at 201 South 3rd Street. Residents from District 3 can bring unwanted items to the drop off site at any time during those hours. The final community clean up day this spring will be on Saturday, May 4th in District 4 (primarily north of Tieton Drive between 40th Avenue and 1st Street). Clean up days scheduled for later in the year include Saturday, September 7th in District 1, Saturday, September 28th in District 2, Saturday, October 12th in District 3, and Saturday, November 2nd in District 4. District 3 residents can pick up free bags for cleaning neighborhood alleys and streets at the drop off site this Saturday and are urged to separate household refuse from yard debris. Recycling bins will also be available to handle paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, and milk jugs. Goodwill Industries will also have trucks at the drop off site to accept old electronic equipment for recycling and donations of reusable items. The drop off site will not accept hazardous materials such as paint and chemicals, but will handle old tires for disposal. The clean up events are designed to give not just individuals the opportunity to get rid of junk around their houses, but to create a chance for volunteers to step forward as well. “We already know that several organizations, including local churches and non-profits, will have volunteers on hand for this weekend’s clean up,” said Yakima Refuse Division Code Compliance Officer James Scott. “Being part of the clean ups is a great way to make a difference in our community.” Any individuals or groups interested in becoming involved in future Yakima community clean ups should contact Yakima Refuse Code Compliance Officer James Scott at 576-6745.

More From News Talk KIT