New Brunswick Environmental Commission Discusses Clean City Campaign, Seeks Block Captains

Editor's Note: The following information was submitted by Heather Fenyk of the New Brunswick Environmental Commission.

The New Brunswick Environmental Commission devoted their August meeting to documenting the success of the Clean City Campaign and charting a path for recruitment and renewed volunteer commitments to the City program.

Many of the more than 20 registered Clean City Campaign Block Captains attended Tuesday night’s meeting where discussion focused on creating a “buddy” system for door-to-door outreach, and on networking opportunities through the new Facebook page: “New Brunswick Clean City Program.” 

Environmental Commissioner Erin Connelly, manager of the new Facebook page, encouraged use of the social media site by Block Captains, explaining that the site “Is one of many strategic tools for the program.  It is a great way to stay connected, build stronger ties, and get information out quickly about upcoming city clean ups.” 

Block Captains are asked to conduct at least one clean up a year at a time convenient to them. They are responsible for door-to-door outreach in their neighborhood in advance of their clean up to engage others in the effort, and to bring awareness to the role of individual responsibility in keeping our city clean.  The Department of Public Works has a number of resources available to assist City Block Captains, including advice regarding outreach and safety, print materials in both English and Spanish, and supplies including bags, gloves and educational material.

17 clean ups have been held in city so far in 2012, with 56 bags of trash and 21 bags of recyclables collected.

For more information, or to register to become a Clean City Campaign Block Captain contact The City of New Brunswick Division Recycling at (732) 745-5059 or email the New Brunswick Environmental Commission at NBEC@cityofnewbrunswick.org.