Akron City Council approves $100K increase for Keep Akron Beautiful initiatives

The City of Akron Council Committee Meeting on July 28, 2025, highlighted a significant funding boost for the Keep Akron Beautiful initiative, with an additional $100,000 allocated to enhance city cleanup efforts. This increase aims to expand the program's capacity to tackle litter and improve overall city cleanliness, a pressing concern for many residents.

Councilman Chris Luddles expressed excitement about the funding, emphasizing the need for "more boots on the ground" to pick up trash and clean the city. The collaborative efforts between the city and Keep Akron Beautiful have been praised, with council members acknowledging the organization's effective work despite limited resources.

During the meeting, Councilman Lombardo raised concerns about littering, noting that it is one of the top issues he hears from constituents. He highlighted the importance of education in recycling and litter prevention, suggesting that initiatives like the Recycle Right program play a crucial role in fostering community awareness. The program aims to educate residents on proper recycling practices and the environmental impacts of littering.

Keep Akron Beautiful representatives shared their plans to utilize the new funding for educational outreach, including potential billboards and social media campaigns to further engage the public. They also mentioned ongoing efforts to work with local schools to instill recycling habits in children, recognizing that education is key to long-term change.

The meeting also touched on the city's challenges with illegal dumping, particularly concerning tires. A grant has been secured to help manage tire disposal, alleviating some financial burdens associated with cleanup efforts. Council members expressed gratitude for the partnership between the city and Keep Akron Beautiful, acknowledging the organization's vital role in maintaining Akron's aesthetic and environmental health.

As Akron moves forward with these initiatives, the increased funding and collaborative strategies are expected to make a noticeable impact on the city's cleanliness and community pride.