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We are now officially in spring and the weather is such that many of us will begin looking at our homes and property, if you haven’t already, with an eye for some spring cleaning.

This may include yard work, cleaning out the garage or picking up clutter around the property.

As people begin getting into the idea of freshening up their property, we want to take the opportunity to remind land and property owners that Albert Lea has ordinances that regulate things like trash and junk vehicles.

The city encourages residents to protect the health and safety of the community by properly disposing of trash and refuse because accumulating refuse can lead to offensive odors, insects and rodents.

If refuse becomes a nuisance as defined by city code, the Police Department can contract the removal of that refuse and assess the cost back to the property owner.

This should be done, not only to align with city ordinances, but to encourage a healthy community.

To clean up your property for cheaper fees, we hope you will consider attending the city’s annual Hometown Pride Cleanup Day from 9 a.m. to noon April 27. On that day, people can dispose of most items free of charge or at reduced rates at the Albert Lea Transfer Station and Demolition Landfill.

Brush, yard waste, household garbage and demolition debris will be free, while appliances, sofas or mattresses will be $10 each. Other furniture items are $5 each, and passenger tires are $3. Regular rates apply on rims and e-waste.

When welcoming people to Albert Lea, we want to put our best foot forward. This in turn can pull in more people when they see our clean parks, tidy yards and overall health of the community.

They will want to come to Albert Lea — not to mention it’s good for us personally. We should and do feel better when we can relax on a nice summer day in a clean yard. When there is excess junk in our yards, there are safety hazards. Either you or any visitor to the property could become injured. The clutter and junk can also cause health concerns coming from things like accumulations of manure, refuse, junk or other debris.

Let’s all avoid the hassle and take the time to ensure our yards and property are an example of what we want others to see. The benefits far outweigh the cost.