Recently, the City of Douglas with inmate labor launched a clean-up project where alleys, vacant lots and other public properties were cleared of debris.

The city is now asking citizens here to help maintain that effort by doing their part in keeping their property clean, especially some of the more troublesome areas such as alleyways.

"The homeowners are responsible for keeping their half of their alley clean," said City Manager Mike Ortega.

The issue becomes even more of a problem during the rainy season, when the combination of moisture and sun causes weeds to sprout uncontrollably.

Weeds and other debris are not only unsightly but also create a haven for insects. When the weeds dry out, they then become a fire hazard.

The accumulation trash, weeds, filth and dilapidated structures are defined as a public nuisance by a city ordinance.

In part the city defines a "nuisance as any condition or use of a premises or building exteriors, which tends to endanger, injure or impair the health or safety of any person."

This also includes the accumulation, growth, storage, or retention of rubbish, trash, animal or vegetable matter, metal, glass, grass or other cuttings. These kinds of environments can favor the harboring of insects and vermin.

The ordinance also does not permit water or other liquids to accumulate and remain upon the property and become stagnant and foul.

This provision does not apply to natural drainages or drainages connected with streets or other public rights of way.

In terms of putting out garbage, homeowners are allowed no more than six containers in the alley for trash pick up, with each container being no more 32 gallons each.

The weight of each container should not exceed 64 pounds.

For more information, citizens can contact city government at 364-1586 and inquire about ordinance 688.