Illegal rubbish dumping cost ratepayers in Cumberland around $1,000,000 last financial year, Mayor Steve Christou confirmed today.
“While many residents and businesses do the right thing, illegal dumping is still happening across Cumberland and we’re not seeing a lot of improvement,” Mayor Steve Christou said.
“The $1,000,000 we spent on illegal rubbish dumping last year, could have been spent on services or assets like our public libraries, parks and swimming pools.
“We don’t want to fine people up to $8,000 for illegal rubbish dumping but the reality is cleaning up illegal dumping comes at an expense to Council and ultimately ratepayers.
“Council will be working closely with residents in the community to help them understand their obligations and the Council services that are available to remove unwanted items.”
Council rangers responded to 77 reports of illegal dumping between September and November 2019, resulting in numerous penalty notices being issued. Dumping includes building supplies, mattresses, garden waste and rubbish.
“I strongly believe that keeping streets clean and green is everyone’s responsibility and it’s certainly not something Council can do alone,” Mayor Christou said.
“Last year, Council won the Keep Australia Beautiful Award for Most Sustainable City so we know that many residents have a real sense of pride in our community and as a region we have enormous potential.
“When residents are cleaning out their housing and wanting to dispose of unwanted goods, we want them to take advantage of our free four council collections per year for up to two cubic square metres of items.
“If you witness illegal dumping, please report it to Council. Let us know the date, time and description of what you saw. Anyone who makes a report can remain anonymous.
“If you want to get rid of unused items and you’re unsure of what can and can’t be recycled, please contact Council. We have dedicated resource recovery officers who can assist you and provide information and advice.”
The app to book a free Council collection can be accessed via Council’s website at: https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/environment/waste-and-recycling/book-council-clean-up
Council collections and illegal dumping can be reported to Council by calling 02 8757 9000.
