Re: [UC] Question about block cleanups

[HarvestMoon3]

This is a problem faced by many blocks in UC, I think, and the SHCA has attempted to address exactly these issues via a specific committee.  Ideas have been generated, but probably not yet implemented. (These things take time, and we're all just volunteers.) But, I would recommend :    1)getting involved with the Spruce Hill committee dealing with these issues. That gives you a base of support and help and ideas (and maybe $) 2) Form a block association, and leaflet all houses, apartments, and businesses on the block.  Make it a brief but informative notice, and include concepts that will have broad appeal to renters and the business-owners.Have a meeting, and see who comes out.  You will definitely start out small, but you will definitely be able to grow and gain more participation once you initiate the thing and get a few others "on board". Make the meetings a social occasion, and exchange phone #s etc. Network. 3) As already suggested, contact UCD for help. You never know, if you don't ask. 4) SHCA block grants: apply for these, and get participation from neighbors. These are geared toward greening efforts, but you might be able to "stretch it" and apply for funds for bike racks, etc. and use your powers of persuasion to call it "greening". (Don't quote me on that -- I'm not on the committee and I could be wrong.  Never hurts to ask , though) 5) Work with the businesses that "give a damn".  I think Saad's is on your block. He's a good guy.  Probably 2nd Mile also. Doesn't Blackwell's son have a store-front on that block?  Perfect. Contact Jannie.   Neil Lifson   ----- Original Message ----- From: Alex de Soto To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2003 7:51 AM Subject: RE: [UC] Question about block cleanups Maybe the UCD can intervene.   Alex   -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, October 22, 2003 3:07 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [UC] Question about block cleanups   Hi all Just adding my two cents here.  What has been written is very good, trying to get more of the renters and neighbors in general involved with keeping the blocks clean.  It is to everyone's benefit, after all. The problem on our block, aside from the fact that there are only 2 homeowners and the rest are renters, is that there are alot of businesses on the block.  None of them have their own trash cans for one thing.  There's no bike racks anywhere, so people chain their bikes to the trees, our front fence, whereever.  Also, because we have a small convenience store, thrift stores, a bar and karate school, people hang out and just drop their trash on the sidewalk even though there's 2 city trash cans on either corner.  They don't live on this block so they don't care.  Seems we (me and my roommate who owns her house) spend alot of time picking up after everyone else because we just can't stand seeing bags, wrappers, beer bottles, etc. everywhere.  Any advice on this kind of situation?  Thanks! Wendy