City requires dumpster owners to clean up
Friday, October 9th, 2009
By: Shai Ben-Yaacov
sben-yaacov@whyy.org
Philadelphia City Council says dumpster owners and users will have to clean up their act. Council passed a law Thursday that increases fees and enhances enforcement. But trash haulers say its a way to get rid of dumpsters altogether.
Listen:
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Councilmembers say Center City is overrun with graffiti laden, over-flowing dumpsters. They approved legislation that would require every dumpster to have a medallion that would make it easier for L&I inspectors to identify troublesome owners.
It would also double license fees and increase fines for violators.
Councilman Bill Green says the new law will improve the city's reputation.
Green: Philadelphia has moved one step closer to shedding the unflattering moniker filth-a-delphia. This bill addresses quality of life issues in both center city and the neighborhoods.
But trash-haulers say the increase in fees will put them out of business, causing users to leave their trash in bags on the sidewalk.