Public Health Wraps Up Successful 33rd Annual Project NICE/KEEP
Published on April 24, 2024
Sioux Falls, South Dakota: Volunteers helping with the 33rd annual Project NICE (Neighborhood Improvement Complaint Easement) and Project KEEP (Keep Environmental Enhancement Permanent) have wrapped up the 2024 season with a remarkable increase in residents served. The effort marks another successful year of community engagement and environmental stewardship.
“Community need and City support remain strong,” stated Nick Miller, Environmental Health Manager with Sioux Falls Public Health. “This year, we assisted over 4,000 residents in removing unwanted items, preventing potential Health Nuisance violations.”
The significant increase in residents served reflects a growing commitment to neighborhood improvement and environmental enhancement. Last year, the number stood at just over 3,000, demonstrating the program’s continued impact on the community.
Project NICE was designed 33 years ago to address neighborhood code enforcement concerns. It was soon joined by Project KEEP, further expanding the scope of community involvement in environmental cleanup efforts. Each year, designated areas receive assistance from City employees who volunteer their time for the cleanup initiatives.
For the 2024 season, Project NICE covered the area bounded by 18th Street to the north, I-229 to the south, Kiwanis Avenue to the west, and West Avenue to the east. Project KEEP encompassed the area between 26th Street on the north, I-229 on the south, Minnesota Avenue on the west, and Cliff Avenue on the east, including 41st Street to the north, I-229 to the south, West Avenue to the west, and Minnesota Avenue to the east.
As the City transitions into warmer weather, officials emphasize the importance of maintaining well-kept properties and lawns. Grass and weeds must be kept under eight inches in height to ensure community aesthetics and prevent potential violations.
The City typically responds to around 2,500 complaints annually, with violations potentially resulting in a $100 citation plus the cost of abatement. Upon receiving a complaint, the City’s weed and mowing enforcement inspector conducts an inspection and notifies property owners of any violations. Owners are given seven days to address the issue, after which a City-hired contractor may be dispatched for abatement, with costs billed to the property owner.
Sioux Falls Public Health urges ongoing community cooperation in maintaining neighborhood cleanliness and compliance with local ordinances, fostering a cleaner and more vibrant environment for all residents.
For more information about Project NICE, Project KEEP, or lawn maintenance guidelines, please contact Sioux Falls Public Health at 605-978-6900 or www.siouxfalls.gov/resident-services/contact.