JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Jamestown Public Works Committee recommended a change to the Curbside Cleanup week plan based on the potential for spring flooding Thursday.

In 2019, it was reported that 332 tons of material were collected during Citywide Cleanup week, nearly 30 tons more than in 2018. It cost the city around $16,000 in unbudgeted expenses.

The plan, created by Sanitation Foreman Tyler Michel and others, was presented to the committee due to the potential for spring flooding and the possibility of the Street Department being busy with flood matters.

According to Michel, residents would be able to dispose of the same items the city would normally collect during the week at no charge. The baler would have extended hours like last year to allow residents to come after work or on Saturday that week.

Committee Member Dave Steele liked the plan, even if it didn’t flood this spring.

Steve Brubakken said they would also need to ensure the public was aware of any change well beforehand.

Mayor Dwaine Heinrich added that citywide cleanup had been held for numerous years to help alleviate the buildup of materials and more from residents.

Over time, he points out that residents would just save up their debris and garbage for the week rather than dispose of it themselves.

He pointed out that a highlight had become the “swapping” part of the cleanup week, which he says would be nice to see if an organization or group could put something together during that week to swap items rather than putting them out curbside.

The change was unanimously approved.