LONG BEACH, Miss. (WLOX) - Long Beach leaders kicked off a new initiative Saturday aimed at tackling blight and beautifying neighborhoods one property at a time.

The first-ever Neighbor Blight Action Day brought out dozens of volunteers armed with chainsaws, rakes, and determination. Their mission was to clean up an overgrown property left behind after its owner passed away. Instead of city crews handling the work, neighbors stepped up. Officials say that not only saves taxpayer dollars, it also strengthens the community.

“This is our first event to do something like this, but I hope it’s the first of many,” said Long Beach Ward 2 Alderman Jesse Allen.

Mayor Tim Pierce said seeing residents come together was inspiring. “We have a lot of good people out here today. It really makes your h

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