Couch, residents work on La Colonia cleanup

An email sent to Supervisor David Couch's office began what is turning into a project that will help clean up the area known as La Colonia in Shafter.

There are a number of violations in the area, including an old boat on Water Company property at Martinez Street. The boat that has been tagged for removal numerous times and has weeds and growth all around it.

It was made clear in an email from Supervisor Couch's office that, unfortunately, it is not just a matter of going and getting rid of the boat and cleaning the area around it. No one can legally go on to someone's property and remove items from it. A code compliance case has to be opened and proper channels need to be gone through.

In a statement from Couch's office, a case has been opened regarding the boat and surrounding debris. A representative also stated that an application has been submitted for a new sewer project that would serve several surrounding communities including West Shafter, Southwest Shafter, Thomas Lane, Smiths Corner and Cherokee Strip.

According to Mark Salvaggio of Supervisor Couch's office, there is a six-point plan to help improve the quality of life in La Colonia, from cleaning out the drainage sump to installing a stop sign and street name sign at the corner of Burbank Street and the road that runs north and south of La Colonia. American Refuse will be removing the mud at the intersection of Mannel and Rodriguez streets, he said.

There also will be a Bulky Waste Clean Up event held in La Colonia in March. Couch's office is working with American Refuse, and the event will give residents the opportunity to have their bulky items hauled away at no charge. More details on this event will be coming very soon, he said.

"We are doing a great deal to clean up the areas that have been brought to our attention and are looking forward to getting the areas cleaned up and serving the residents who have concerns and issues," Salvaggio said.

He also asked to be advised if any illegal dumping in county right of ways is observed, so that a County Roads Illegal Dumping Crew can be sent to clean up much more quickly. Salvaggio said that Supervisor Couch and his staff are well aware of the challenges facing La Colonia and are making every effort to make government work for the people of the community.