City Council to cleanup the city

The Huntington City Council said Monday come July 1 will be the start of cleaning up the city.

Council members approved what is called a “junk” ordinance that will require residents to remove typical household items, such as mattresses and couches, from their porches or yards.

Residents who do not comply could face a $500 fine or serve time in jail.

The ordinance is part of Mayor Steve Williams’ plan to improve the quality of living of Huntington.

In Monday’s meeting, Mayor Williams said his goal is to make the city better and cleaning up the junk is the first goal.

Council members encouraged the public to help out seniors and neighbors with the cleanup. They also said residents can contact their city councilperson or the Mayor’s office if they have junk or trash they want taken away.

The council also discussed an ordinance for a $65,250 contract with AECOM Technical Services of Richmond, Va., for the development of a skate park at Harris Riverfront Park.

Several council members said it will allow children somewhere to skate and get them off the streets.

The council will vote on the ordinance at the April 8 meeting.