Wentworth to reward those with nice lawns

By John Crane

Published: October 1, 2008

Wentworth is rewarding those whose lawns are the tidiest and most eye pleasing.

Starting this fall, town-selected residences, businesses and other properties, including governmental facilities, will get a Community Pride Award. The recognition will include a yard sign and gifts from area businesses for having the best-kept grounds and prettiest landscaping, said Wentworth Town Administrator Brenda Ward.

The town’s Appearance Committee, which proposed the idea for the award, will scout properties throughout Wentworth, judging creative design, including curb appeal, landscaping and seasonal exterior decor. The Community Pride Award will be given once per quarter to one residence and non-residence each on the east and west sides of N.C. 65/87, Ward said.

After the committee has made its four choices, a letter will be sent notifying recipients. Those who dislike the attention can turn down the award, she said.

“They’ll have the option of declining if they don’t want to participate,” Ward said.

A residence or business may win only once per year, and Town Council and Town Appearance Committee members will not be eligible.

Ward said she and the committee hope the award promotes community pride and recognizes Wentworth residents who maintain and improve the appearance of their home and neighborhood.

Wentworth was incorporated in 1998 and has a population of about 2,900, Ward said.

The town recently established the Appearance Committee, along with those for recreation and historical preservation, as part of a broader effort to improve the community, Ward said.

Anyone who notices an eye-catching home or business can call Wentworth Town Hall at 342-6288 and recommend the property for the Community Pride Award.

Businesses interested in donating gifts for Community Pride winners can notify Town Hall.

Contact staff writer John R. Crane at or (434) 791-7987.