City officials convened on Tuesday to discuss a range of topics, including ongoing public works projects, community cleanup initiatives, and future plans for youth programming and recreational facilities during the city of Pine Bluff Public Works Committee meeting, chaired by council member Bruce Lockett.
Kelli Kennedy, director of Clean and Beautiful, provided a report on the Ward 3 Community Cleanup Program. She noted the importance of community involvement. The discussion touched on challenges with illegal dumping and efforts by code enforcement to address these issues.
Regarding the expansion of the cleanup program, Kennedy said the goal is to learn from the Ward 3 pilot and apply successful practices to other areas.
“The main goal of the Ward 3 pilot cleanup program was to address long-standing issues that had not been resolved by regular cleanup efforts,” she said. “The cleanup program is different because it focuses on addressing long-standing issues that have been neglected, rather than just regular street cleanups.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
According to Kennedy, the program tackles persistent blight problems and involves the community, including older people, in maintenance.
“We will help get it under control,” said Kennedy, addressing helping older people who may have become overwhelmed with yard maintenance. So far, she said, they have helped around seven older adults.
Regarding the September 25 cleanup of a Watson Chapel-area school courtyard, Kennedy said between 100 and 150 volunteers pitched in. The school is now using the area as a classroom for the kids.
A free fall shredding event was held on Oct. 30 at Saracen Landing.
The meeting shifted to youth programs and recreational facilities. Most sports, except for adult basketball and baseball, are run by volunteers.
The meeting also touched upon the possibility of establishing a soccer league. While currently not available, Pine Bluff Parks and Recreation Athletic Director Basil Shabazz suggested a soccer program could be on the horizon.
Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, is also gaining traction in the city. With two pickleball courts already on Main Street, plans for upcoming events or workshops were confirmed.
A specific challenge highlighted for the football fields, especially with the fall season approaching, is the lack of adequate lighting. Lockett emphasized the need for proper lighting to facilitate late-day practices, as players currently resort to using vehicle headlights once it gets dark.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue these efforts and to use the city website to share updates on upcoming programs and initiatives.