As a result of residents doubting the public work efforts by the City of Phoenix to deter illegal dumping, the city is cracking down on violators.
Two high-quality cameras and signs were installed within the last two weeks on an alley near downtown Phoenix. The action is part of a larger issue that has resulted in piles of trash and junk collecting regularly throughout the city.
“We do have a problem with illegal dumping,” said Johnni Green, a manager with the Phoenix Public Works Department. “We have caught some people (on camera) but mostly it is a deterrent.”
Residents in certain areas claimed that the dumping got so bad that it prevented driving in those areas, with the only solution being to clean it out themselves.
Arcadia resident Casey Hood called the city a couple months ago to request the addition of cameras.
“Cameras are the only solution,” Hood said. “I can’t stand back there and wait for somebody to come by and get pictures.”
While the goal is to add more cameras throughout the city, public works still asks for the assistance of homeowners as a result of the funds required for the surveillance equipment.
Solid waste environmental specialists can investigate and determine who is dumping, but a fine might not always be the result when violators are caught. According to the city ordinance, fines range from $100 to $2,500.
Hood thinks that the punishment needs to be more severe to get the message across that dumping is prohibited illegal.
“They dump it, and the city just passively picks it up,” he said. “They should be aggressively prosecuted, fined, minimally on probation, possibly throw them in jail for year two. I could [not] care less.”
Public works will not be satisfied with the action taking against dumping until homeowners are happy.
Residents are advised to call and report the dumping as soon as they witness the act.
If the dumping has already occurred, call the city’s customer service line at 602-262-6251, and if it is in progress people are asked to call 911 or 602-262-6251.
Dumping can also be reported by emailing information and photos to public works at [email protected].
