The deadline to submit nominations for the sixth annual City of Mountlake Terrace Evergreen Awards program is approaching fast. The awards recognize property owners who take great care of their properties; nominations for this year’s awards close on Friday, May 23.

There are five categories of awards: Best Maintained Residence, Best Maintained Business, Best Maintained Multifamily Property, Most Sustainable Property and Best Transformation. Nominees are judged against properties within the same neighborhood: Cedar Terrace, Gateway, Lake Ballinger, Melody Hill, Cascade View, and Town Center.

Best Maintained Awards reflect the efforts of the owners or occupants whose high standards for building and yard maintenance contribute to the overall character of the neighborhoods and city. The Transformation Awards recognize neglected properties that have been renovated to become assets to the community. The Sustainable Award honors property owners who best utilize green features such as solar heating, natural cooling and native landscaping to help protect and preserve the environment.

Nomination forms are available online at www.cityofmlt.com and at city facilities. Those interested may also send an e-mail to cityhall@ci.mlt.wa.us with Evergreen Awards in the subject line and include the address, category, and reason for nominating the property.

Anyone can submit a nomination and a property owner may nominate their own home or business. Properties being marketed for sale are not eligible. Properties will be photographed for judging and for a presentation at the awards ceremony that takes place in September.