Although alarming, the garbage situation on the cutbanks, as reported by Frank Peebles, is not surprising. There are pockets of these man-made dumps all over the city. Early this spring a load of household garbage was dumped near our home in the Cranbrook Hill area. Someone went far out of their way to dispose of their household refuge that day. Sadly, this is far too common an occurrence.
It is very commendable that the city's Solid Waste Services manager, Mr. Kelly, found the cutbanks "disgusting". His suggestion of "community engagement - the eyes and ears and curiosity of neighbours - is the first line of defense" is an interesting premise. The manager of Bylaw Services, Mr. Gusdal suggested that "there are provisions for enforcement" for illegal dumping. Really? In our case on Cranbrook Hill, no one at the city found the illegally dumped garbage disgusting even after pictures were sent along with names and addresses found in the garbage. There was not one response to our complaint. As city residents, we did our part even going so far as cleaning up the strewn garbage. If the city wants the public's assistance, then they need to respond and address complaints.
Enough is enough. When garbage is illegally or irresponsibly dumped, chances are those doing it will leave something behind. Find it and maybe some of our ever increasing tax dollars can be spent making such irresponsible citizens accountable. I challenge the city to put the words of their own employees into action.
It is shameful that the cutbanks will not be cleaned until August or September. As a result we now have another problem to worry about - bears!
L Bryce
Prince George
