By Glenn Rolfe

SEAFORD — The city is eying voluntary trash pickup on a block-by-block basis.

Initiated by the actions of a couple residents, City Council on Tuesday unanimously supported Councilman Michael Bradley’s recommendation to establish an Adopt-a-Block Program.

“Recently, two members of our community have volunteered (and) committed to beautifying our city by picking up neighborhood trash on a frequent basis. The results of their efforts have not only been commendable but transformative,” said Councilman Bradley. “Seeing firsthand the results of their efforts, I think it is time to request approval from the City Council to establish a citywide Adopt-a-Block Program.”

Under the initiative, volunteers will be provided safety vests, gloves and trash bags. Participants will dispose of the trash at the Parks & Recreation dumpster during business hours.

“I would propose that residents reach out to me and sign up to pick up trash in their neighborhoods or areas of the city that they are especially passionate about,” said Councilman Bradley. “Together, we can coordinate their commitment and the areas of responsibility.”

His proposal was in response to the efforts of Chris Vane and Tom Collins.

“I felt that the two individuals that contributed so much could use some help enhancing our city. I am a newbie, so people may wonder what is in it for me. Nothing. Absolutely nothing,” the first-term council member said. “I just want, when my tenure is over, for our city to be a little better than it was when I was elected.”

He also recommended that the city consider putting the program online, so residents can sign up through Seaford’s website.

“If the City Council is willing to support this program, we may be able to spin this up in the next few weeks to months,” Councilman Bradley added. “We will do this as a trial to see what impact (it) has. Small deeds performed by many can have a big result.”

Mayor David Genshaw agreed, saying, “We’ll get this pushed out.”