Council discusses launching Adopt-a-Street program; staff outline modest costs and next steps

Staunton City Council discussed on March 27 whether to convert a passive Adopt-a-Street program into an active, city-supported volunteer cleanup program, with potential benefits for watershed protection and MS4 stormwater credits.

Councilor Overholtzer introduced the idea and said the program mirrors existing volunteer programs such as Adopt-a-Stream and could protect the watershed by preventing street litter from entering creeks. He said the Lewis Creek Watershed Advisory Committee supports a more active program.

City Manager Leslie Beauregard and public works staff told council the environmental division could administer volunteer sign-ups and coordination while public works would collect the bags volunteers produce and supply basic materials. Public Works staff estimated the more permanent road signs sometimes used by other jurisdictions cost roughly $500 each (including post/foundation work) and said staff can make signs in-house to reduce costs. Beauregard said staff would identify any modest recurring costs during the upcoming budget process if council asks them to pursue a formal program.

Councilors discussed alternatives: one councilor suggested periodic one-day cleanups rather than adopting specific stretches of road; others said signs can be useful community recognition and that businesses or nonprofits could pay for signs if desired. Council discussion indicated broad informal support for the staff recommendation to prepare a resourcing plan during the budget process and to ask staff to report back with a formal program proposal and cost estimates.

No formal vote took place; staff will return with a draft implementation plan and proposed budget items if council agrees to pursue the program.