Spaniard’s Bay council willing to take dumpers to court
By Olivia Bradbury / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Spaniard’s Bay council is taking action to deter illegal dumping of garbage at a site off Recreation Road in Tilton.
The matter got a full airing at council’s May 6 public meeting.
Councillor Eric Jewer noted public works staff went to the area to check out the situation. It turns out some people are using the spot to dump branches, bricks, concrete, tiles, siding, and other debris. Jewer made a motion to put out a notice reminding residents about dumping and telling them to review any by-laws relating to dumping within the municipality.
“It’s absolutely unreal what’s out there,” Jewer said.
His fellow councillors agreed.
Deputy Mayor Tammy Oliver pointed out there is no signage in the area, and suggested erecting a sign to let people know dumping is prohibited.
“I don’t understand it,” said Jewer. “I’ve got to be honest with you. It’s not people from outside the community doing it.”
Jewer said the area is isolated, and one must take a specific route to reach it.
“There’s no access, only on a small community road to get in there,” he said.
Jewer said the Town provides a weekly garbage pickup, including bulk pickup. There is also a location in Harbour Grace where people can drop off bulk garbage, and one in Bay Roberts where people can drop off metal. “But yet, they take it down there and break the law and heave it off,” he said.
Oliver reminded residents that the Town’s cameras will be rotating around the municipality. “Council, in the past, has taken a stronger tactic to this because it’s really getting out of hand,” she said.
Oliver added the Town now shares a by-law enforcement officer with Bay Roberts, Harbour Grace, and North River and if enough information can be gathered, it will prosecute illegal dumpers. “We’ve got to make a stand and get this dealt with,” said the deputy mayor. “Enough is enough. There’s garbage everywhere. There’s no need of it.”
The motion to send out a notice to residents and erect a ‘No Dumping’ sign in the area was seconded by councillor Debbie Newman. The motion passed unanimously.