City requires dumpster owners to clean up

    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.

    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: 091008spdumpster.mp3]

    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.

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    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.

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