The city of Bogalusa took fourth place in its division in the state’s “Cleanest City” contest this year.

Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette said the city was notified of the result Friday. Bogalusa participated in the contest in 2018 for the first time in more than a decade, so this marked the second straight year of the city’s participation.

Bogalusa also took fourth place in its division last year.

“I think it’s a good thing for the city,” Perrette said. “The thing about this contest is that the route (for judging) changes from year to year, so it’s important for everyone to keep their neighborhoods clean all the time.”

Perrette said that one of the most important focuses of the Cleanest City competition is that it educates younger people to practice good habits.

“We enjoy going into the schools and showing the kids why it’s important to keep their community clean,” Perrette said. “These kids can teach us the newest dances, but they can also set a great example for adults on how to take pride in their neighborhoods.”

City Parks and Recreation Director Landon Tims said that the award is something that should bring pride to all Bogalusa citizens.

“The most important thing is that we’re being recognized at a state level,” he said. “We want to be sure to keep everyone involved and look forward to participating again next year.”

“I think our city is a winner just for entering the contest and taking part in it,” Perrette said.

The Louisiana Garden Club Federation organizes the statewide contest each year. There are 10 divisions, based on city size.

Bogalusa participated in Division G, which had six competitors. Bogalusa defeated fifth-place Reserve and sixth-place Jennings.

Abbeville took first place, Pineville took second place and West Monroe took third place. In April, Bogalusa won its district competition to advance to the state level.