OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County anti-litter initiative, No Horsin’ Around with Marion™ Anti-Litter Campaign, has received national plaudits for its program placing an emphasis on keeping the county free of rubbish and debris.
The program earned the 2024 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties, with the accolade recognizing innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen service for residents.
The No Horsin’ Around with Marion™ Anti-Litter Campaign was unveiled in late 2022 and has concentrated on promoting awareness for keeping the area clean through advertising and education, updating an existing litter ordinance, and the program has seen the addition of a code enforcement officer position, a new logo and mascots.
Its spirited mission has been ubiquitous. with the message being seen on billboards, commercials broadcast on radio and television, and having a huge social media presence. The community has also embraced the raccoon mascots Rubbish and Debrie.
Since its inception the Marion County Litter Task Force has made progress in illegal dumping cases. In June authorities announced the arrest of two men in connection with dumping 3,000 pounds of trash in the Ocala National Forest. Last November, the task force announced the felony litter conviction of a construction company that dumped more than 11 tons of debris near the Ocala National Forest.
“This is something that has brought the community together and wants to stop,” said Craig Curry, Marion County commissioner in a news release. “We’re going to be the facilitator to put the effort together, but the community is ultimately going to come up with the game plan and the execution of that game plan.”
Schools can request the mascots and speakers from Marion County’s Litter Task Force to attend events and community gatherings here.