Fort Pierce city officials are taking significant steps to enhance the cleanliness and maintenance of the city following discussions during the City Commission meeting on June 9, 2025. A key focus was on proposed changes to solid waste management and landscaping codes aimed at improving the overall appearance and hygiene of public spaces.

One of the primary issues addressed was the current solid waste collection system, which has been criticized for not effectively promoting cleanliness. City officials noted that residents often leave yard debris outside of designated containers, leading to additional charges that are not currently enforced. To tackle this, a proposal was made to allow a certain volume of yard debris—between two to four cubic yards—to be collected for free, with charges applied for any excess. This change aims to encourage residents to properly dispose of their waste while reducing litter on city streets.

In addition to solid waste management, the commission discussed landscaping code changes that would clarify responsibilities for maintaining public areas. Currently, there is confusion regarding who is responsible for mowing grass in front of homes, especially in areas where the city lacks the resources to maintain all right-of-ways. The proposed changes would shift some of this responsibility to property owners, thereby allowing city staff to focus on maintaining parks and other public facilities more effectively.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of operational efficiency within the public works department. Officials outlined plans to improve communication among staff and enhance service delivery through better staffing and equipment. This includes the introduction of two-person teams for grapple truck operations to ensure thorough debris collection and improve safety.

Moreover, the city is looking to invest in specialized equipment, such as beach cleaning machines, to maintain the cleanliness of Fort Pierce's beaches, which have seen an increase in litter. The goal is to create a cleaner environment that encourages community pride and discourages illegal dumping.

Community engagement remains a priority, with officials emphasizing the need for outreach programs to educate residents about proper waste disposal practices. The city plans to implement initiatives that involve local volunteers in cleanup efforts, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents.

As Fort Pierce moves forward with these initiatives, city officials are optimistic that these changes will lead to a cleaner, more beautiful community, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all residents.