The local cinema operator is calling for businesses and local government to come together and make Katherine the "cleanest town in the Territory".
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"I look at the town, and I'm quite passionate about it now I'm a business part of the town," said Greg Harmer, who operates Katherine Star Cinema.
"I'm passionate about the way the town looks because I see Katherine as a hub... years ago Batchelor won the award for cleanest town in the Territory, I don't see why Katherine can't put their entry in."
Mr Harmer is referring to the Tidy Towns award ran by Keep Australia Beautiful, and the 2020 NT winner was Nhulunbuy.
According to the Keep Australia Beautiful website, Katherine was the NT winner in 2002, 1983 and 1981.
Mr Harmer said this project was inspired by the rubbish and graffiti he regularly cleans up in the laneways and carparks surrounding the cinema.
He said he has hired a cleaner to help out, but is looking for a more coordinated approach between business owners and Katherine Town Council.
"Perhaps the council should look at employing extra staff... and get the place clean and tidy," he said.
Mr Harmer said he has approached the Chamber of Commerce about a meeting of business owners and residents to work on a coordinated approach.
"Let's have a discussion about what you'd like council to do... just an open public meeting."
Chamber of Commerce Katherine regional manager Colin Abbott said he would like to discuss a clean up effort with Mr Harmer and other businesses in the town.
He said some back streets and carparks in Katherine "reek" and described Mr Harmer's efforts as a "very reasonable thing".
Mr Abbott backed the idea of a joint effort between businesses, property owners and KTC, saying each side had to take ownership of what they could control.
"I'm wary of things being put back on local business... particularly in tough times," he said.
"Council need to take responsibility for areas within their scope... businesses and property owners need to take responsibility for areas outside of the council's umbrella."
Katherine Town Council has been contacted for comment.
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