Much has been made in recent weeks about one of the most fundamental aspects of economic development.

Cleanliness.

Ironton Mayor Rich Blankenship has taken steps to improve the appearance of the downtown area, which is one of the steps in a larger economic development effort for the city.

River bank cleanups, neighborhoods clean sweeps and Adopt-A-Highway efforts are just some of the routine events that help make the area shine just a little bit brighter. And now the Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District, Friends of Ironton and House of Kustoms in Elizabeth Township are partnering to address another area of need.

Run-down vehicles in visible areas make for an unattractive landscape. House of Kustoms owner Rick Rogers said his company will take the telephone calls from people interested in having those vehicles removed.

Rogers stressed that he must have a title signed over to him or a receipt before he can take the vehicle. And for those who decide to get rid of the eyesores, they’ll receive a gift certificate to an Ironton restaurant.

“This is a big issue in the county and in the city of Ironton,” said Dan Palmer, the solid waste district coordinator. “We see it everywhere.”

The telephone number for House of Kustoms is (740) 532-2613 and the number for the solid waste district is (740) 532-1231.

Cleanup efforts by economic development and government leaders are important steps in revitalization. Making a place inviting is a simple - yet vital - part of the process.

But efforts by civic groups, business owners and private citizens are equally important in this effort. The recent program is a good example of that commitment and all parties should be commended for their participation.