Baltimore government service that works

Ever since we "adopted" the empty lot down the block, we have mowed it and kept the litter picked up. It is looks much better. However, the occasional dog still does its business on the grass. Father Tom suggested to Ellen that she call 311 and ask the city to put up a sign to remind dog owners of the city ordinance requiring dog owners to pick up after their dogs. Ellen called in early April and was told that a sign would be erected. Sure enough, a crew came out with spray cans a few days later to mark the spots where the signs would be placed. Nothing happened for several weeks and then suddenly last week three signs appeared! We mowed the lot again this morning and there were kids tossing a ball around on the lot. That was something we had not seen since we moved here more than two years ago. This lot often had grass up to the knee and broken glass made it hazardous for kids. That was gratifying to see kids have a place to play like normal kids. With all the coverage on city hall scandals and budget cuts, it is a pleasant surprise that such a service still existed.