Walnut Grove — Public Works and Code Enforcement officials told the council on Nov. 13 that visible cleanups and operational improvements are under way across the city.

Public Works Director Toby said the department is undergoing a "culture change," with new daily vehicle checklists, cleaned and reorganized trucks, mapping of sewer field heads for more efficient irrigation, hard‑wiring and testing of Christmas pole lights, repairs to a landscaping trailer and new bathroom fixtures in the shop. Toby said the department applied for a government safety grant that could provide up to $6,000 for approved items and invited council members to visit the Public Works building to see progress.

Code Enforcement Officer Greg described neighborhood enforcement activity and cleanups — citing Industrial Parkway, Emerald Cove, Magnolia Springs and other neighborhoods — and said about 125 violations were written locally in the previous year. Greg reported working with landlords and property owners to remove debris, address erosion and correct illegal parking and junk storage. He also said a local food service operation was temporarily closed by the health department over inspection issues and later reopened with corrective action.

Council members praised the visible results and thanked staff for prioritizing cleanup and safety. Staff said the city is building a capital improvement plan that will include vehicle and equipment needs and that they will implement a training schedule and updated tracking for service requests and permits.

What happens next: Staff will continue the capital‑planning work, pursue grant opportunities, and send department highlights and photos to council via email.