Community members gathered on Cholla Road in Midland on Nov. 9 for The Great Southside Cholla Cleanup. The event was organized by Keith Stelter, Vice President of Sales at Maze Environmental and Texas Fabco.
The cleanup, held from 10 a.m. to noon, drew over 50 participants, including oil and gas executives, bankers, business owners, and students.
“It takes a community to take care of a community,” Stelter said. “Seeing people join from different backgrounds demonstrates the unity within the Permian Basin.”
Stelter has organized several cleanups, engaging local residents to help restore areas in Midland. In nine months, his initiatives have improved landscapes and drawn broad community participation.
“Keith’s cleanups give hope for the Permian’s future and he primarily self-funds the cleanup projects himself. We’re here volunteering as community members, giving time and energy to make this a better place,” according to Jonna Smoot, VP of Strategic Accounts at City Bank.
“I appreciate the dedication people show,” said Stelter. “Everyone came with purpose, making a visible impact with over 153 commercial tires and 19 passenger tires removed.”
The disposal of the tires and debris incurred a fee of $1,280. “We have a few donations but we need more to continue this mission,” said Stelter.
Stelter can be contacted through his LinkedIn profile for donations and additional cleanup events.
Midland Times is a media partner with the Great Permian Basin Cleanups, each uniquely named for their locations in West Texas. Follow for additional cleanup dates.