Mundelein launches cleanup program

Mundelein officials and a local community group have launched an effort to clean up the town’s neighborhoods.

The program, called “My Block,” encourages people to use specially designed white garbage bags to clean up trash near their homes. The bags, which are about the size of large purses, are available for free at the police station and village hall.

The effort, launched this week, was funded by the Mundelein After School Coalition, a group dedicated to providing positive activities for local students.

Mundelein High School student Arika Egan, a member of the group, came up with the idea. She wanted to make people more aware of litter in their neighborhoods.

“The amount of work involved is minimal,” Egan said in a news release. “The plan is to get people to clean up the streets when they take walks.”

The students’ work earned praise from Mundelein Police Chief Raymond J. Rose, who has worked closely with the group for years.

“I just can’t tell you how phenomenal it is to sit there and talk to them and (listen to) their ideas,” Rose said.

The bags can be picked up any time at the police station, 221 N. Lake St. They’re also available weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at village hall, 440 E. Hawley St.

Bags also can be picked up Saturday, May 28, by volunteers participating in the A-May-Zing Mundelein community cleanup effort.

Once filled, the bags should be disposed of with regular trash or recycling, officials said.

The groups will provide as many bags as needed to meet demand. More can be ordered.