Volunteer urges Odessa to join Texas Trash-Off and form cleanup subcommittee

Becky Battershall, a native of Odessa who identified herself as representing the Sandstorm Aggie Moms Club, urged city leaders March 11 to promote local participation in the statewide Texas Trash-Off and to consider forming a city subcommittee to sustain cleanup efforts beyond a single day.

Battershall told the City Council the Texas Trash-Off began at Texas A&M in 1982 and has grown into a large volunteer-driven cleanup day she described as an opportunity to involve neighborhoods, churches, schools and businesses. She said her group's plan for March 22 is to work along West County Road, starting at residents’ immediate surroundings and expanding to alleys and adjacent properties; she asked the city to help mobilize volunteers and consider a standing subcommittee to maintain momentum.

Mayor Hendrick and other council members responded by promoting several coordinated cleanup events. The mayor announced Keep Odessa Beautiful’s kickoff activities and noted a joint effort with Keep Midland Beautiful and the Chamber of Commerce culminating in a June 6 business-oriented cleanup day. The mayor also asked staff to connect Battershall with Keep Odessa Beautiful organizers. Council members emphasized that trash removal is a community priority and encouraged volunteer participation.

Battershall’s remarks came during the meeting’s public-comment period; the council did not take formal action on the request but directed staff to facilitate contact between her group and city volunteers and partners.