“Operation Clean Sweep” appointed community members to hit the streets of downtown Mansfield with their targets on litter. The volunteers were equipped with a trash bag and latex gloves; then they were assigned a specific section of town to peruse for trash.
Operation Clean Sweep is a yearly event that happens once in the spring and once in the fall. It is in its fifteenth year, and on Tuesday evening, fifteen people showed up to clean up the city. The City of Mansfield Engineering Department is in charge of organizing the event.
“Part of being in a community is actually taking part and taking ownership of it. It’s not somebody else’s mess to clean up; it’s up to us,” said Program Coordinator Kim Hildreth.
“It is truly amazing,” said Hildreth. She is amazed by the participation and willingness of some people who participate each year. During the spring clean up, she said there are many people who come out to participate in the clean up. She said fifteen people for the fall is a good turn out.
Shelby Wright, a participant and resident of Mansfield, brought her family out to the event. They were equipped with the above mentioned essentials, and crafted a friendly competition to see who could gather up the most trash.
“[Sometimes] it is frustrating because we’ve taken part in some of the clean ups before and seen the streets the very next day just as they were before we were here. I wish people would start caring a little more. I am happy to help though,” said Wright.
This is the family’s fourth year in helping out with Operation Clean Sweep. Their names are Jerry Wright (husband), Maggie, and Quinn.
“We need to put the good out there in order to get the good back,” Wright reflected.
Earlier this week, Mayor Tim Theaker said, “It is very important we continue to demonstrate our pride and dedication to our city and the revitalization of the downtown and nearby neighborhoods that will, in turn, affect our entire community.”
Operation Clean Sweep is an annual event, taking place usually in the spring and fall. To get involved in the next Operation Clean Sweep, contact Kim Hildreth at 419-755-9702 or email khildreth@ci.mansfield.oh.us.
