City Hall Gets into April Fools' Day Spirit

Did you fall for it?

The City of Malden Facebook Page ran an update that may have caused a few double-takes among residents Monday morning.

"It has a been a long winter with near record snowfall," the update reads.

"If you look around the City you will see a visual reminder of what kind of a winter it has been. Large, dirt-filled snow piles that line our streets and back yards not only create a visually unappealing landscape but can also spell trouble for tulips and crocuses trying to bloom in the early spring.

"Beginning today, the Malden DPW will begin collecting snow using special bags that can be found at select stores."

A post on the city hall website elaborates: "Pictured here, these snow bags may look like yard waste collection bags but are lined with special cold-insulating waterproof material to allow them to hold up on a warm spring day. 

"Remember, you must put your snow in official City of Malden snow collection bags or bags will not be collected. Collection will be restricted to 1 bag per week and bags must not exceed 30 pounds in weight"

The prank, combining two major complaints among residents - the city's "Pay As You Throw" bags and this winter's snow removal - seemed ripe for outrage, though most seemed to be getting the joke on Facebook Monday morning.

It's not the first time the mayor's office has pranked residents - last year, Christenson announced the city would abandon plans to demolish city hall, instead putting the six-story building on stilts.

What do you think of the mayor's April Fools' prank?