Illegal rubbish dumping costs rise
The cost of cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish in the Far North has potentially reached close to $100,000 a year, despite an intensified campaign to catch and fine those responsible.
"It's an increasing problem which is not only an eyesore and health hazard but also has an environmental impact which is potentially damaging to the Far North's visitor industry and New Zealand's clean-green image," General Manager for Water, Wastewater and Refuse Peter Johnson said today.
"In the last three months (since November last year) we have received 56 complaints of illegal dumping resulting in around 30 fines being issued to a total value of $6000. The return from fines is barely making an impact on the cost of picking up and disposing of the rubbish.
"If illegal rubbish dumping continues at this level the nett cost to the council over the next 12 months is potentially $100,000. This is money we would be better using to expand recycling services across the district," he said.
Those responsible should be warned that illegal dump sites were being monitored and that the council would not hesitate to impose instant fines of up to $400, or as a last resort to take a prosecution through the courts with the possibility of an even higher level of costs.
"We appeal to their sense of community and remind them of the damage their actions have on the Far North's two biggest earners and employers- farm production and the tourist industry.
"The potential damage to streams and waterways, and the impact this could have on these two essential industries, is enormous," he said.
"Illegal dumping costs everyone –ratepayers, offenders, our communities, and the environment," he said.
Mr Johnson said the council was asking the community to follow a few simple steps:-
To only dispose of rubbish at designated collection points or Transfer Stations.
To put bags out for collection at the advertised drop-off times
To ensure pre-paid stickers or pre-paid bags were used.
"Surely a $2.50 to $3 bag or sticker is better than running the risk of a $400 fine. Illegal dumping is simply not worth it.
"Cameras are being used at all the known illegal dumping spots and we will pursue any person who ignores the no dumping warnings signs.
"In the first instance we are asking the community for its co-operation to reduce the current level of abuse because this is the most cost-effective approach. But if the current trend continues, the level of monitoring will have to be increased, albeit at an additional cost on Far North ratepayers," he said.