Written by Emma McDaris // Graphic by Ben Evans
An annual event in Searcy encouraged White County residents to do spring cleaning and make their community cleaner.
The annual “Keep White County Beautiful” county-wide cleanup event was March 28-30 at the White County fairgrounds. White County residents were asked to bring items to the White County Fairgrounds for easy, free disposal.
Citizens were required to show proof of residency in White County to leave their items at the event. The City of Searcy website listed that items such as “appliances, furniture, and scrap metal” were accepted in the event, while items such as “tires, batteries, and chemicals” were discouraged. Todd Phillips, superintendent of the Searcy sanitation department, shared his experience participating in the event.
“[It was a] very busy, beautiful weekend and holiday … one of the busiest I’ve seen in a while,” Phillips said.
He said the event provides a special opportunity for all White County citizens.
“I would think it has more impact on citizens outside the city of Searcy who do not have all the waste service that is provided to Searcy citizens,” Phillips said.
Mayor Matt Faulkner said he sees the event as a necessary step for the Searcy community.
“The White County Clean-Up event plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and aesthetics of our community and county,” Faulkner said. “This event provides citizens with an opportunity to dispose of large items that may otherwise accumulate and become an issue in our neighborhoods.”
The event encourages spring cleaning for the county citizens, but there are steps everyone can take to keep the county beautiful all year, Phillips said.
“[Be] mindful of disposing according to regulations,” Phillips said. “Please keep loads in trailers or back of pick ups tarped or tied down to prevent blowing debris on our roads.”
Faulkner said White County citizens have opportunities throughout the year to clean out their properties and are supported by the Searcy administration.
“We always encourage citizens to take an active role in maintaining a clean and aesthetically pleasing community. Last fall we even started ‘Spruce Up Searcy,’ a community initiative designed to inspire and engage our residents in enhancing the beauty and vibrancy of our city,” Faulkner said. “I’d encourage citizens to continue to utilize the services of our sanitation and recycling center. If residents have questions about how to dispose of any items that do not go in their regular trash or recycling bins, they can contact our Sanitation Department for more information.”
