The amount of litter and junk on the side of the roads (especially areas like 880 and Emeryville underpasses) is shocking and disturbing. When people visit Oakland by plane this is the first impression they get of our city. Oakland needs a strong beautification program in which non-violent criminals (ie. marijuana offenses, repeat traffic citations, etc) can reduce their jail sentences by picking up trash, pulling weeds, and repainting walls covered in ugly graffiti. Wouldn't it restore these down-and-out people with a sense of purpose ? Wouldn't it instill a feeling of pride in one's neighborhood? Would it not build stronger communities? For the amount of criminals in this city and crowded jail cells we could have the cleanest city in the country!

Gas-powered leaf-blowers are extremely noisy and disruptive. They also burn gas far less efficiently than cars, and blow large amounts of dust and dirt into the air, decreasing air quality. They merely blow debris around, onto neighbors' properties or into the street. Many cities have banned them, including Berkeley. The weed whackers have the same problems of noise and inefficient gas-burning.

Many decisions are made about city operations and services that affect the quality of life of residents. It would be helpful if residents had opportunities for public feedback and education at the earliest points of consideration - before matters are voted on by the Council.