SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane is cracking down on illegal dumping to tackle the growing issue of trash on its streets. The city has introduced a new ordinance that imposes fines on people caught dumping waste illegally.
So far this year, city crews have collected over 1.2 million pounds of trash, but questions remain about the effectiveness of this new ordinance.
Arik Reyes, a resident of Browns Addition, said Arik Reyes, who lives in Spokane. “I live in Browns Addition, and it is not being dealt with appropriately.” Reyes is among many frustrated residents tired of seeing trash on the streets.
Another resident, Brittany Seipert, expressed relief that the ordinance is in place due to safety concerns for children at her daycare. “I’m all for it. Especially if people get fined for throwing things like syringe caps,” she said.
Last year, Spokane city crews collected more than 1.6 million pounds of trash. Just partway through the year, the number is already over 1.2 million pounds.
Although he lives in St. Maries, Idaho, Gage Gree noted the trash problem extends beyond Spokane. “People just drop it off anywhere and think people won’t know,” he said.
Reyes remains hopeful but skeptical about the ordinance’s impact. “Most of the stuff is downtown and I don’t see fining people who can’t afford to live is going to help the city,” he said.
Residents who spot trash are encouraged to report it by calling the city’s 311 line.
Readers may want to check out Spokane City’s website for more details on the ordinance and community initiatives.
