Take Pride Initiative sees gradual progress
Russellville’s Take Pride Initiative has been in effect for a few weeks now, and the city is starting to see some progress, according to the team assembled to oversee the project.
Fire marshal Justin Green, building inspector Bill Fuller and Lt. Brian Shackleford set out twice a week to inspect properties, buildings and residences to make sure that they are up to code, safe and being properly cared for. Green said they have received some reports from citizens requesting them to check certain places, but they would like to hear more from the community.
“We need community participation if we want to see more progress,” Green said.
The best way for citizens to report something they feel needs attention is to call RPD dispatch at 256-332-2230, according to Green. He said that they can properly direct the call to either him, Fuller or Shackleford, depending on what the call is concerning.
Green inspects fire code and safety issues. Fuller is in charge of building code violations. Shackleford deals more with appearance, such as lawn care and litter.
“Doing this as a group has made this a more productive venture,” Green said.
One of the biggest problems is citizens accumulating junk or trash on their lawns, which includes household items and abandoned cars. Shackleford said he wants people to be mindful of their litter, weeds, grass and stagnant swimming pools.
“We want the city to look good for our citizens, and for that to happen, they need to take pride in what they have and take care of it,” Green explained.
When it comes to building code violations, Fuller said citizens have a full 30 days to respond to and fix the problem after receiving their notice. Green said 10 days is the limit for cars and vehicles, and it’s five days for grass and lawn care issues. But when it comes to life safety issues, Green said the problem must be addressed immediately.
“We’re not out to get anybody,” Green said. “We try and work with people. We don’t want them to be in trouble, but we also want to see progress in the city.”
Some other rules that Green said to be mindful of are running a business without a license or being in a business district and burning things outside, such as trash.
Mayor David Grissom and the city council have expressed their support of this initiative in the past. Grissom said the council hopes citizens make an effort to support it for the betterment of Russellville.
