Unkempt, litter-ridden parks are not an option in Biddeford. That’s the message that several community groups have sent by participating in the Adopt-a-Park program.
The groups, which range from the Knights of Columbus and Rotary Club members to local churches and businesses, have stepped up to help beautify the city just when it’s needed most, and for that they should be applauded.
Resources are tight for the public works department, which has faced budget cuts and now doesn’t have enough man hours to do all the cleanup work that keeps the city’s parks in tip-top shape. And so the Adopt-a-Park program was born, with community groups taking their own time to weed, rake, cut brush and remove litter as needed at their respective “adopted” park.
It’s an inspiring program, giving volunteers a real, tangible way to connect with their community and beautify it in the process. All of us who live near, use or even just drive by the parks are the beneficiaries of their work and its ultimate benefit is to instill pride in our community.
Ultimately, it should be up to the public works department to maintain these parks, but during a time of budget cutbacks, it’s heartening to see that community groups are willing to step up to fill the need in the meantime and make sure that the city’s appearance doesn’t suffer from the reduced funding.
The volunteers were honored with an event last Saturday, and we’d like to join the Heart of Biddeford in thanking them for their donation of labor to brighten the city.
In a perfect world, we wouldn’t have to worry about litter in our city parks, as all those who use them would have as much respect for the property as those who maintain it, but we don’t live in that world. Without the help of these volunteers, it’s undeniable that Biddeford’s city parks would suffer from the reduced maintenance from public works. We’re grateful for their efforts, for the beautiful parks, and for the community spirit they’ve helped to keep burning bright.
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Today’s editorial was written by Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski on behalf of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Kristen by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.
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