Council Dude Crispin Explains Kansas City Trash Dumping Crackdown

This is important work that's typically neglected by voters and local media.

Here's the main quote from a recent column AND a bit of explanation about how the process the hopes to curb a longstanding local crisis . . .

"Illegal dumping is often committed by individuals who do not live in the targeted neighborhood. Some perpetrators do not even live in Kansas City, and come from outside city limits to dump in our community. Individuals often advertise online that they can properly dispose of your bulky items, only to find a park or wooded area to discard the waste.

"This is an issue that has plagued neighborhoods across Kansas City for decades. Every year, thousands of residents complete the Citizen Satisfaction Survey and tell us that basic services, such as cleaning the city, are a top priority. Last year only 12.3% of those surveyed reported being satisfied with the city’s efforts to combat illegal dumping.

"However, city leaders are listening and taking action. This month, Kansas City enacted comprehensive plans to combat illegal dumping. These plans include increasing the budget for the bulky item pickup program, trash carts and large-scale dumpster cleanups. We also purchased additional equipment for the Public Works Department to proactively clean illegal dumping sites rather than waiting for a complaint. The Neighborhoods Department increased the number of staff members who will investigate illegal dumping cases from one to six — the most investigators the city has ever deployed. The city will coordinate with neighborhoods to install dozens of new cameras at known dumping sites to assist the investigators with identifying perpetrators. The Municipal Court will create a special illegal dumping docket to efficiently manage the influx of new cases."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Kansas City has a trash dumping problem. City Hall is taking real action to fight it | Opinion

People who junk up our neighborhoods will face increased penalties, community service - or even shock incarceration. From City Council member Crispin Rea: