Memo to Student Renters:

In preparation for the upcoming neighborhood watch for Sam Hughes we are looking for volunteers to serve as group captains for each block in the neighborhood

Tips on Being a Good Neighbor

Tucson has a fairly high renter occupancy rate. In the University-area neighborhoods, the rate tends to be even higher and many of the rentals near campus provide student neighbors the joys and tribulations of maintaining a household for the first time. Each fall, local neighborhoods are inundated with newcomers who may not be aware of some of the things that make them stand out as student renters.

Small, courteous things can make a difference. These things can help get you off on the right foot with your more established neighbors who may have owned nearby homes for a very long time.

• Find out what day the trash and recycling is collected and bring in your green and/or blue barrels after pickup.Use the barrels appropriately by putting recycling in the blue barrel and trash in the green one. In some areas, several families share large barrels, and when your longtime neighbors find the green barrel filled with recyclable items like cardboard boxes, not only is it frustrating because there is no room for their trash, but they are sure to know that it is the new neighbor who is unfamiliar with the recycling programs. For more information about Tucson recycling call 791-5000 or go to tucsonrecycles.org.
• Park appropriately on the street or in your garage or carport. A front yard that is frequently utilized as a parking lot is easily identifiable as a rental and many homeowners think the practice looks shabby and damages curbs.
• Parking on the easement is actually illegal and you can be ticketed for doing so. The city of Tucson has a parking program for street side parking. Permits, along with guest permits, can be obtained by calling 791-5071. Your neighbors will thank you if you use the front yard for landscaping instead of parking.
• Clean your yard of trash and weeds on a regular basis. One neglected property can bring down the appearance of a whole block. Homeowners are concerned about the appearance of the area because they have worked hard and invested in the neighborhood, both financially and emotionally. Properties in poor condition can also be magnets for crime, which hurts everyone.
• Get to know your neighbors, even if it is only waving "hi" when you arrive home. Developing a positive relationship with your neighbors can provide great benefits. Your neighbors can keep an eye on your home while you are away, and having a network on your block discourages criminal activity and the ability for prospective criminals to go unnoticed.
• Be sure to let your neighbors know if you plan to have friends over for a party. Be responsible when you hold these events: be aware of noise, parking and trash. An out-of-control event means that you are in violation of Tucson's Unruly Gathering ordinance, which means that you can receive a Red Tag (sanction) on your home. For more information on Red Tags, and being a Good Neighbor, go to www.union.arizona.edu/csil/csa/housingguide/community.php.
• Mostly, just be friendly, open and respectful of your new neighborhood. Living near the UA in one of the beautiful and historic areas can be a terrific opportunity and a great learning experience where you can meet some interesting people who have lots of information and goodwill to share.

Sarah Evans, Neighborhood Relations Coordinator

UA Office of Community Relations, 626-3073