Tackling Litter and Beautifying Our Community with Local Hero Suzie White
In some parts of Brampton, persistent litter and garbage overflow have impacted the beauty and livability of our neighbourhoods. While City-led initiatives like the Residential Rental Licensing Program and Parks Beautification Projects are working proactively to address these issues, meaningful change often begins with engaged residents who care deeply about their communities.
One such local hero is Suzie White of the Nelson Street West Neighbourhood Association, whose commitment to a cleaner, greener Brampton is inspiring action—and results
After noticing a buildup of litter along the Orangeville Railway greenspace behind 45 Railroad Street, Suzie submitted a request to 311Brampton, the City’s municipal service portal. She also contacted the office of Regional Councillor Rowena Santos, expressing concerns about other nearby properties.
Within 48 hours, Brampton’s Parks team had assessed the location and prioritized the clean-up. Thanks to this joint effort, the railway greenspace saw a dramatic transformation, underscoring the power of grassroots action supported by responsive city services.
“The process works,” says Councillor Santos. “When you report through 311Brampton, your request is assigned a COBI number. Our office can use this to follow up and help move things forward.”
Collaborative “walkabouts” with residents like Suzie are an essential part of Councillor Santos’ approach to community engagement.
“These walkabouts give us the chance to work side-by-side with passionate residents, assess real-time issues, and develop solutions together,” she said.
During a recent tour with Suzie, the team developed an action plan for the Orangeville Railway greenspace that aligns with the Imagine Your Impact Campaign and ongoing beautification efforts. As they continued their inspection of nearby properties, Councillor Santos contacted property owners directly—securing a commitment for a full clean-up the following week.
“I’ve lived in downtown Brampton for decades,” says Suzie White. “Like my neighbours, I love our community and want to see it thrive. When I raise an issue, whether it’s the railway greenspace or other neglected properties, Councillor Santos and her team always work with us to find practical, lasting solutions.”
Brampton belongs to all of us. Keeping it clean, safe, and vibrant is a shared responsibility—and residents like Suzie are showing what’s possible when we act together.