The deadline to submit an application for a Polk County Appearance Commission beautification award is May 1.
Promoting beauty in Polk County, beautification awards are given annually by the appearance commission to recognize projects that include landscaping improvements and/or structural improvements to the street view of properties.
In granting the awards, the commission’s purpose is to recognize a diversity of locations throughout the geographic area of Polk County. Any project in the county, a town or township can be considered.
Selection criteria include:
• Street appearance
• Tasteful landscaping, including but not limited to trees, shrubs and flowers
• Well-maintained property
• Effort rather than cost
• Creativity and effort combined
• Structural improvements
• Property in compliance with existing codes, taxes, etc.
Improvements could also including signage, awnings, planters, fountain features and similar elements.
Any property owner or renter of a commercial or residential property located in Polk County can nominate their own property or another property if that property is visible by the general public from public roads or sidewalks or can be visited by the public.
The appearance commission will make up to six awards this year, of which a maximum of three will be for publicly owned properties. Awards will be presented in June. Nominations made after May 1 will be held for consideration next year.
To submit an application, please follow this procedure:
1. Download and complete the form on the website www.beautifulfoothills.org
2. Provide pictures of the property, before and after
3. Mail to the following address by May 1: Appearance Commission, Polk County Government, P.O. Box 308, Columbus, N.C. 28722.
– article submitted by Cathy Brettman