SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — The first honorees of Scranton's Good Neighbor program were celebrated by Mayor Paige Cognetti on Wednesday morning. The program recognizes homeowners in the city who take great pride in taking care of their properties.
Homeowners are nominated by members of the city's code enforcement team.
The honorees received a door knocker and a gift card to Gerrity's supermarkets for their years of dedication.
Jack and Donna Borer have lived in this house for 40 years and are among the first recipients.
"I was shocked when Isaac came to the door with Chris, and you know, they said we were nominated for a Good Neighbor Award. I didn't know what it was at first. But then, you know, he explained it and I was, I was thrilled. I think it's very nice that they recognize us," Good Neighbor Award recipient Donna Borer said.
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"This is an opportunity for us to not only give out quality of life tickets out. But, to be rewarding the folks that keep their homes so beautiful right here in the city," Mayor Cognetti told 28/22 News.
The Borers hope other neighbors will follow their example. They say upkeep is key.
"Don't let it get ahead of you, that's all. That's what happens a lot of times. You know, the property overtakes the people that own it, and they just get frustrated with it. But every year we try to do something, you know, whether it's putting air conditioning in our house, which was needed. You know, the house is over 100 years old," Jack Borer explained.
To qualify, homeowners must be up to date on their taxes, rental registration, and rental fees, and have no outstanding code violations.
Mayor Cognetti says more Good Neighbor Awards will be given at different times throughout the year.
