To: Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Rex Bohn
Agenda Section: Initiated by Board Member
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:
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Consider Amending Sections 521 and 522 of County Code Regarding Dumping and Littering to Increase the Fees
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RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Direct staff to amend sections 521 and 522 of County Code ordinance entitled Regulations of the Storage, Collection, Transportation and Disposal of Solid Waste and Source Separation Materials and Littering as directed; and
2. Return to the Board of Supervisors at a future meeting to introduce said ordinance amendments.
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STRATEGIC PLAN:
This action supports the following areas of your Board’s Strategic Plan.
Area of Focus: Safe & Healthy Communities
Strategic Plan Category: 1001 -Support and sustain partnerships between public safety and partner agencies to enhance public safety in our communities
DISCUSSION:
Illegal dumping has become a growing concern in Humboldt County, burdening Public Works with cleanup costs and straining county resources. From abandoned appliances and construction debris to household waste left along roadsides, these activities harm the environment, create public health risks and reduce community pride. Additionally, there is minimal set enforcement fees or structure for law enforcement to hold the people who are dumping accountable.
Currently, much of the cleanup cost falls on taxpayers. The absence of a dedicated funding mechanism leaves Public Works financially constrained and lends to the Sheriff’s Office an inability to enforce dumping violations per a county code.
Proposed amendments to the ordinance would establish higher fees for illegal dumping. It would also support Public Works in cleanup and prevention efforts while providing resources for law enforcement and investigation activities.
This amended ordinance would provide environmental protection, reduce pollution and help preserve county land...
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