CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The City of Citrus Heights has taken a critical step to help reduce blight and maintain a vibrant and clean community by launching recruitments to staff a new Beautification Crew Program.

On June 23, 2022, the Citrus Heights City Council unanimously approved the Beautification Crew Program voicing enthusiasm for the program’s potential to address one of their key areas of focus, improving community image for residents and business. The City is contracting two limited term full-time positions to provide maintenance and beautification services, including: Litter and weed abatement, illegal sign removal, removal of unauthorized materials in the public right of way, graffiti removal, augmenting existing contracted services, support for encampment material removal, pressure washing, and clearing of debris along sidewalks and trails.

The crew will deploy in a fully outfitted utility truck to support the program.

Like other communities, Citrus Heights has experienced increased levels of visible blight largely attributed to illegal dumping, negligent littering, inattentive property owners, and transient activity. These challenges adversely affect Citrus Heights businesses and threaten the economic vitality of our community and the quality of life for our residents. This current, complex situation is the result of many factors outside the City’s control, which include but are not limited to relevant case law related to unlawful camping activity, lack of affordable housing, and a historical lack of local resources to proactively address blight. The one-time American Rescue Plan Act funding has provided Citrus Heights a unique opportunity to increase local control and advance community image goals by deploying resources directly into the community that will proactively address blight.

The Beautification Crew Program is a part of the City’s multipronged approach to improve and maintain community image and vibrancy. Be on the lookout for the Beautification Crew at upcoming events as the City ramps up outreach and education around the program and services that will be provided.