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With the snows of winter now almost certainly gone and spring most definitely in the air, elected officials with the Borough of Villeray/St-Michel/Park Extension were joined last week by workers with Éco-quartier as well as some residents to launch the area’s seasonal cleanup, which is taking place using some of the latest energy-saving tools and equipment.
Responsibility emphasized
The campaign, taking place this year in conjunction with the centre city under the general theme of “keeping MY neighbourhood clean,” seeks to maximize awareness among residents, businesses and institutions in the borough about their responsibility for maintaining a clean environment.
During a formal launch held at the borough hall on Ogilvy Avenue, Mayor Anie Samson reminded everyone that it was only last year that the borough passed a bylaw which makes property owners and citizens responsible for maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings. “I am proud to tell you today, a year later, that there have been concrete results,” she stated.
The results
Since May 2008, according to Samson, the borough’s urban planning department opened nearly 4.000 dossiers, and processed nearly 2,000 cases dealing with sanitation problems. In that time, 643 notices of infraction were issued, of which 150 ended up in charges being brought in municipal court. In addition, 1,200 letters were sent to residences and establishments where ashtrays and trash receptacles are supposed to be installed.
Since last year, property owners have been made liable to prosecution if they don’t maintain their front yard properly or keep it clean. Business owners are obliged to clean the sidewalk outside their establishment and to install exterior ashtrays. Owners of eating establishments where grease or cooking oils are used must dispose of them in closed and sealed containers to avoid spillage.
Electric efficiency
In addition, the borough’s sanitation inspectors, who are on duty seven days a week, are keeping a close watch, so that the rules are obeyed. The penalties are potentially severe, and start at $100 for a first conviction, up to $4,000 for serious repeat offenses. This spring, with growing awareness of environmental concerns in mind, the borough is using two small, low-speed electric trucks to help clean its streets. Last year, the borough purchased eight electrified tricycles to help clean the sidewalks and laneways. A dozen or so Madvac sidewalk and alleyway vacuum sweepers are also part of the operation.
Some other events:
In conjunction with Éco-quartier, a number of related activities are also being organized in conjunction with the 2009 cleanliness campaign. Earth Day celebrations will be taking place on April 22. On Sat. May 2, resident-organized cleanup crews will be going around the Complexe environnemental Saint-Michel and in Jarry Park. Local schools will also be conducting cleanup campaigns. On May 9 and 10, compost will be distributed at the environmental complex. There will be a flower giveaway the following day.