The City of Palmdale has released a comprehensive plan to address the problematic issue of illegal dumping and will soon announce a series of meetings to engage residents, businesses, and groups in collaborative efforts to help curb and prevent it in the community. The plan may be viewed at https://cityofpalmdale.org/1168/Illegal-Dumping-Action-Plan.
“Combating illegal dumping has always been a priority for this council,” said Palmdale Mayor Steve Hofbauer. “We’re pleased to have developed a solid and aggressive plan that will help everyone play a part in keeping our city looking its best. We also appreciate the ongoing work of the dedicated volunteers that work at least one Saturday every month and who cleared over 800 tons of trash from the desert last year.”
The living document will change as needs change, as efforts have been fully implemented, and as new ideas and approaches are identified.
Some of the key elements in the plan include actions to be taken by Code Enforcement to address illegal dumping, working with local nonprofits and volunteer groups, and increasing penalties for those who are caught illegally dumping.
“It’s encouraging to see groups of concerned and committed residents taking a stand against illegal dumping and forming their own groups who go out on weekends for clean ups,” said Mayor Pro Tem Richard Loa. “We look forward to connecting with our residents to show a united front against the scourge of illegal dumping.”
As part of the city’s Season of Service campaign, the next desert cleanup event will take place on Saturday, April 30 at 70th St. E. and Ave. S from 8 to 11 a.m. Registration is available at https://signup.com/go/WWTdgEW.
“The city is also working on providing more opportunities to responsibly dispose of waste items,” said Councilmember Laura Bettencourt. “Free events such as mattress recycling, used oil and filter collections, and paint recycling are all part of the greater plan to engage residents.”
For more details, call the Palmdale Environmental Resources Division at (661) 267-5300 or email envirotech@cityofpalmdale.org.
