Commission Works to Better Millbrae

Led by Chair Christina Stevens, members went over monthly activities and expectations for the month of October, as well as yearly budget plans and goals to enhance the city.

Amongst these plans is the recruitment of additional commissioners to fill two vacant spots.

One of the encouraging mentions was the Beautification Award, a wooden plaque given out four times a year. Recipients of this award get to showcase it outside of their home as proud contributors to the community.

Members of the commission go around the city and pick a nominee for each one of the four areas which they scout for nice lawns and general upkeep.

The winner will be announced on Oct. 26 in a presentation at City Council.

With the plaque,  a certificate signed by Stevens and Millbrae Mayor Paul Seto is also issued.

"We want to recognize the effort of keeping your property nice," said Stevens.

Members discussed the kind of plants they will get for their next planting, ultimately deciding on bulbs, ivy, licorice, and primroses as their seasonal variety.

Stevens emphasized how much aid they've gotten from schools and clubs to help their cause.

The Leos from the Lions Club recently helped in the Bay Area Clean-up at Rotary Park on Sep. 18; along with students from St. Dunstan Catholic School.

"We need to give the Leos a thank you," she said. "They really are an invaluable help."

Stevens and Commissioner Beth Anderson also organized an "unusual garbage" contest in which helpers find unusual litter and write out what it was and where it was found on paper.

"I was surprised at the enthusiasm and competition that came from it," said Stevens. "It was just great."

As part of the discussion, members compared the upkeep of their community with neighbor cities, including city regulations for establishments as well as neighbor duties.

Houses lacking paint and with poor upkeep were also a topic of interest.

"There's no city ordinance for houses that need paint… that's a shame," said Warto.

Resident responsibility plays a huge part on how the community looks, as well as how neighbors choose to care for their home and neighborhood.

"There's only so much that you can regulate," said Stevens. "Take what actions you can to make your community better."

The commission, which meets every first Tuesday of the month, will meet next on Nov. 9 at 6 p.m. due to elections on Nov. 2.