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Council approves residential beautification awards, adds businesses to program
Summary
Council approved a new beautification awards program to recognize property owners who maintain or improve residential and commercial properties; the program will be promoted by Community Development and judged by the Environmental Quality and Energy Conservation Commission.
The Torrance City Council on Jan. 14 approved a city beautification awards program designed to recognize property owners who preserve and enhance the appearance of residential neighborhoods — and, by council direction, commercial properties as well.
Michelle Ramirez, community development director, told the council the city worked with the Environmental Quality and Energy Conservation Commission (TEQECC) to draft guidelines; the commission recommended changes and approved marketing materials. The program will accept nominations by district, and judging criteria will include curb appeal, landscape design, maintenance, sustainable features and contribution to neighborhood beautification. Winners will receive a certificate, yard sign and a modest gift card (Ramirez said staff expects the gift card to be about $50).
Councilwoman Kalani moved to expand the program to include commercial properties; the motion passed unanimously. Staff said funding for the awards will come from the community development department operating budget and that outreach will include social media, council meetings and homeowner association contacts. The first annual awards are planned for spring with the TEQECC announcing recipients at a commission meeting.
Council also approved the staff recommendation to keep the climate‑smart awards schedule separate so the beautification event does not conflict with the climate awards program.
