Nominations open for Hickory’s Beautification Awards
The City of Hickory is now accepting nominations for its annual Beautification Awards Program.
Each year, the Community Appearance Commission (CAC) honors properties that have been improved through landscaping, renovation, or restoration. The awards recognize people and groups who help make Hickory a more beautiful place to live.
Awards will be given in the following categories:
• Residential Landscape – Professionally Installed or Maintained
• Residential Landscape – Non-Professionally Installed or Maintained
• Residential Renovation or Restoration
• Non-Residential Landscape
• Non-Residential Renovation or Restoration
• Litter Quitter
• Hickory in Bloom
• Special Award – For scout troops, nonprofits, and other community groups
Strong nominations will feature properties that are attractive, welcoming, and use creative landscaping. Judges will also consider how the project improves the neighborhood and whether it uses drought-tolerant or native plants. Properties with topped trees will not be considered.
Renovation or restoration nominations should show how the project keeps the building’s original style and improves the look of the neighborhood.
The Litter Quitter Award returns this year to recognize people who help keep Hickory clean. The CAC and the City’s Office of Communications started the Litter Quitter campaign in 2021 to promote environmental care and reduce litter.
A new award category has also been added this year to honor a property that was recognized during the year through the Hickory in Bloom Recognition Program.
“The Beautification Awards Program allows community members to spotlight properties that have made exceptional efforts to enhance their appearance and contribute positively to their surroundings,” said Wilson Elliott, staff liaison to the Community Appearance Commission. “Over the years, we’ve received a wide range of nominations from across the city, from revitalized businesses and beautifully landscaped homes to meaningful service projects by local scout groups. We’re also excited to continue honoring those dedicated to keeping Hickory clean through the Litter Quitter Award.”
To nominate a property, fill out the nomination form at www.hickorync.gov/community-appearance-commission and include at least one photo. Submissions may also be emailed to welliott@hickorync.gov or physically mailed to the Community Appearance Commission, Attn: Wilson Elliott, City of Hickory, P.O. Box 398, Hickory, N.C. 28603.
Anyone can submit a nomination, but the property must be located within Hickory city limits. The deadline to submit is Nov. 28. For more information, call 828-323-7422.
The Community Appearance Commission works to improve the look of Hickory by supporting beautification projects and bringing together people and organizations that care about the city’s appearance.