Dob a Dumper
Manawatu District Council is asking people to help them identify those whoillegally dump rubbish.
‘Fly-tipping’ or the illegaldumping of rubbish is an on-going problem in the district. Not only is it an eyesore, it can smell, cause contamination and attract pests. There is also the extra cost of removing the fly-tipping– a cost borne by ratepayers.
On average 10 complaints about dumped rubbish are received each fortnight. This is commonly at parks, reserves or country roads. All complaints are followed up byCouncil Officers who, before the fly-tipping is removed, photograph it and make enquiries who is responsible.
“If anyone sees anyone fly-tipping we are requesting people take note of the offenders,” said MDC consents and monitoring team leader Rachelle Johnston.
“Details, such as the day, timemake and model of the vehicle or trailer, its registration number and details of the driver such as age, gender, height and other distinguishing features. Any timely information would be appreciated. Another option is to take a photo of the offending vehicle or people on a smartphone and send it to us.”
Under the Litter Act, individuals can be fined up to $5000, or corporates $20,000. Warranted Council staff and contractors are also able to issue instant infringement notices with fines up to $400. Council can then decide whether to prosecute. Anything that is illegally deposited on public or private land is defined as being ‘litter’.
“By prosecuting people we can make them responsible for their actions and hopefully prevent further people from doing the same,” said Mrs Johnston. “There is no need for people to dump rubbish. Our blue rubbish bags are only $1.60 at Council office and collected weekly. If people used the weekly kerbside collection then their rubbish would notaccumulate and then appear too expensive to dispose of correctly.”
Also causing concern is people leaving their rubbish at rural rubbish collection points too early. Neighbouring property owners are complaining about bags being left days before collection days and it causing an eyesore, smell and attracting pests. Rubbish bags should be left at collection points either the evening before or the morning of the collection day.
Anyone with information can call the MDC Council on 323 0000 or email
Photo: Recent images of rubbish dumped in rural locations in M