Volunteers plan citywide litter cleanup and mural project; Board OKs Fall Festival planning

Representatives from Keep Soddy‑Daisy Beautiful spoke during citizen participation to outline three community initiatives.

Nate Sanden, speaking for Keep Soddy‑Daisy Beautiful, described a litter cleanup challenge April 18–24 that will allow teams or families to select areas to clean; 15 teams had registered, and the group will provide bags, safety information and loaner vests. Sanden emphasized safety, saying no one should be on street pavement, highways or narrow-shoulder roads and asked the city to collect filled trash bags; he said he would coordinate collections with Public Works Director Grant.

Terry Williamson updated the Board on the mural project, noting two submittals and that Pam Glaser had compiled an artwork book; the installation at Wimpy’s Restaurant will be funded by two grants and carry no cost to the city. Jim Stewart announced plans for a Fall Festival to be moved to North Park to improve parking, and asked for Board approval to pursue planning and add a 5K and children’s fun runs; the Board gave consensus approval and staff indicated public safety departments would assist.

These items were presented during the public comment portion of the April 7 meeting and drew positive reception from commissioners, who praised volunteer efforts and recent park improvements.