Galesburg, IL. The City of Galesburg is collaborating with the Stewardship Team of Galesburg on Track (GOT) to restructure and resurrect the Community Blue-Ribbon Awards. For many years, the city’s Community Development Department facilitated this monthly award that recognized owners for improvements made to their properties in Galesburg. The program has been inactive in recent years and the local Heart & Soul organization reached out to the city to help breathe new life into this important community initiative that highlights citizen efforts to reflect a positive town image.
Community Development Director Steve Gugliotta supports the change in the award program. “We look forward to partnering with the Galesburg on Track Stewardship Team on this project. The exterior enhancements made by residential property owners have a positive impact on the neighborhood and overall community. Their efforts should be recognized.”
The Blue-Ribbon Award will focus on improvements made to residential properties within the city limits. Improvements can be functional or aesthetic in nature and should promote a positive overall image of the neighborhood. Examples include updates to structures, landscaping, and general cleanup of the property. The Community Blue-Ribbon Award does not include the PAVER Award program that is facilitated by the Landmark Commission and recognizes improvements on historic properties in Galesburg.
“We learned through the Galesburg on Track process that our community values its image,” said Deborah Moreno, GOT Stewardship Team member. “Many who’ve lived here for generations maintain and upgrade Galesburg’s historic homes and neighborhoods to celebrate our heritage. When town pride shines though, new residents and businesses are attracted to our community. Re-invigorating our Blue-Ribbon Awards will be a win-win endeavor for all.”
The award aimed at residential properties will be rotated through the seven city wards and announced by that ward’s council person during closing comments at the first City Council meeting of each month. Nomination forms can be found on the city website or by contacting any Galesburg on Track member. The GOT Stewardship Team will select the award recipients who will receive a certificate of appreciation and have the Blue-Ribbon sign and Heart & Soul town image banner placed at their property. A media release will follow the council announcement.