PHILADELPHIA – Philadelphia is taking a bold step to combat illegal dumping with the launch of a new task force.

Illegal dumping task force set to launch

What we know:

The task force will officially begin on Nov. 3, combining surveillance, clean-up, and enforcement efforts. 

The city aims to address the long-standing issue of illegal dumping and hold violators accountable through civil prosecution.

Local perspective:

Residents like Raymond Reyes and a man who asked we only refer to him as Josh, from North Philadelphia, expressed frustration over the persistent trash problem. 

“Trash just keeps piling up,” said Josh. “We’re sick of it, we really are.”

The city’s enforcement strategy

“They never thought enforcement would occur in the city of Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “We’re going to hit you where it hurts in the pocketbook when you get caught.”

By the numbers:

This year alone, Philadelphia filed 17 new cases, collecting $3.7 million in fines and $62,000 in clean-up costs. 

The city has 470 cameras to monitor dumping hotspots and plans to add more as needed, and move them to new areas of concern. 

How It Will Work:

Starting Nov. 3, 40 sweep officers along with sanitation and park rangers will be empowered to issue notices of violation to those caught dumping, either in action or on camera. 

Fines will range from $2,000 per item for dumping without a vehicle to $5,000 per item for dumping with a vehicle, plus restitution costs for clean-up. 

The city says those that do not pay the fines on time to fight the violation will be taken to court.

What we don’t know:

 It remains to be seen how effective the task force will be in reducing illegal dumping across the city.

The Source:  Information from the City of Philadelphia.

PhiladelphiaNews