Monett launches 'Project Curb Appeal' after First Impression Tour

City Administrator Mickey Airy and Monett Main Street President Alyssa Vaughn announced "Project Curb Appeal," a community effort to improve street-front appearance, following a First Impression Tour that invited nine visitors from outside Monett to evaluate the city.

Airy said the tour produced a clear recommendation to engage residents in improving curb appeal. "We invited nine guests from outside of the city to take a tour of the city and tell us their first impressions," he said, and added that the city would take steps to support the effort.

Vaughn defined the idea and why it matters. "Curb appeal is, simply put, the first impression of a property from the street," she said, listing elements such as "well-manicured lawn, attractive landscaping, sparkling windows, fresh paint, sidewalks that are free of debris, clean buildings, and inviting storefronts." She said taking pride in individual properties "helps to take pride in our community," which supports efforts to attract people to "live, work, and visit" Monett.

Airy framed the initiative as a joint effort. He said the city will do its part by "painting fire hydrants, making sure that branches don't block road signs," and invited residents and business owners to participate. No funding sources, firm timeline, or formal city actions were announced in the remarks.

The announcement closed with a call for community involvement rather than a formal vote or ordinance. The city did not specify next steps or a schedule for the hydrant painting and maintenance work.