“Operation Clean Sweep” is a new initiative designed to enhance Paterson’s waste management efficiency, with a focus on community involvement. This program, introduced by the mayor, centers on the active cleaning of areas like 10th Avenue by Department of Public Works (DPW) trucks. As part of this effort, the city has applied to join Keep America Beautiful, a national organization dedicated to reducing litter.

A significant component of this initiative is the transition from the SDL platform to the Recycle Coach app for scheduling bulk trash pickups. This app, which already boasts over 16,000 users in Paterson, is promoted as a more convenient and user-friendly tool. Kim Stewart, the senior customer success manager for Recycle Coach, elaborated on the app’s features, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and encouraging residents to provide feedback.

Deputy Chief of Staff Deborah Bravo highlighted the app’s potential benefits, noting its capacity to consolidate garbage and recycling pickup schedules into a single platform. She announced an upcoming Green Fair on October 18, where residents could learn more about the app and recycling. The official launch of Recycle Coach was set for September 2, immediately following Labor Day.

The meeting also discussed efforts to enhance the city’s aesthetics, including new murals and educational initiatives related to recycling. A new mural at the entrance from Elwood Park on Broadway was mentioned, with a light-hearted comment about its color scheme. The Clean Communities Coordinator emphasized ongoing efforts to combat graffiti and vandalism.

Nadia Villaina from the Department of Public Works presented the new app’s logo and its features, such as QR codes for easy access. She expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort behind the initiative and stressed the importance of community support in recycling and waste reduction. The belief that small changes could impact the environment was a recurring theme.

Councilman Alex Mendez addressed the bulk pickup scheduling issue, recognizing it as a significant problem for the community. He expressed hope that the Recycle Coach app would facilitate bulk pickups for residents. Mendez also advocated for legislation imposing a $10,000 fine for illegal dumping, encouraging residents to use the app instead of dumping items on the streets.

The council highlighted a marked increase in bulk pickup scheduling, with participation rising from 27% to over 60%. The goal is to further increase this number toward 100%, with the mayor emphasizing the shared responsibility of city officials and residents in maintaining cleanliness.

In addition to waste management initiatives, the meeting celebrated the Kennedy High School cheerleading team’s recent NJDCA state championship victory. The cheerleaders’ dedication, skill, and school spirit were lauded, and the atmosphere turned lively with an impromptu cheer and applause.

The head coach of the JFK cheerleading team, Miss Travel, expressed pride in the team’s journey, noting their development since freshman year and their potential for future success. The assistant coach also shared her pride in the team, highlighting the challenges they overcame to achieve championship status.

Joan Rubio, the principal of Kennedy High School, expressed pride in the cheerleaders and reflected on her long tenure in the Paterson public school system. She conveyed her joy in witnessing the team’s recognition, despite being absent during their championship victory due to hospitalization.

Ruby Cotton, the honorable councilwoman and former mayor, was recognized for her community role. She emphasized her duty to support all children in the community, regardless of school affiliation, and encouraged the young athletes to persist in their efforts.

The celebration concluded with two junior members of the team expressing gratitude for their coaches’ support. They reflected on personal growth and the encouragement they received, emphasizing the importance of collective effort and guidance.