Public Involvement and Participation
The second Minimum Control Measure (MCM) requirement of the Blawnox Borough general stormwater permit is Public Involvement and Participation. Public involvement and participation is really an extension of public education and outreach but allows for more active education opportunities. One of the goals of this MCM is to increase awareness with the public so they are able to help protect/ improve water quality in the community.
Opportunities for Public Involvement
- Once a year a public meeting about stormwater is held at a regular council meeting (for this year it was held March 12, 2020) so that the MS4 Coordinator can explain to the public and Borough Council what has been done to fulfill the requirements of the MS4 Permit. This meeting also provides an opportunity for the community to ask any questions they may have about stormwater.
- In coordination with Earth Day every year the Borough holds a Blawnox Cleans Up day. The clean up day provides the community with an opportunity to get out and clean up trash and weeds in the common areas of the community. Cleaning up trash and debris off the streets and sidewalks prevents it from being washed away during rain events and into the stormwater system.
- The Blawnox Volunteer Group is planning a year long initiative entitled Adopt-a-Block. Adopt-a-Block encourages you to improve your neighborhood by cleaning littered curbs, sidewalks, and vacant lots; removing signs from utility poles and reporting graffiti. Take part in this exciting initiative by "adopting" your block for 2020. From business districts to your own block, this community effort will benefit our community in more ways than one! When litter is dropped on city streets the rain can wash it into storm drains, creating expensive repairs and damaging our eco-system. This is not just a beautification issue! By adopting a block, a person, or group of neighbors, or business commits to cleaning up their block for the next year. To help with your commitment to the quality of life within your community, we will provide supplies and support to aid in the beautification of your neighborhood. If you are interested in adopting a block, please contact Diane at 412-828-2218.