Proposed fine for illegal use of harbor dumpsters set for public hearing

The public will have a chance to voice their opinions Feb. 27 on a pair of proposed municipal ordinances that would limit the use of harbor dumpsters to boat owners only and for their household trash only — with a $150 fine for violations.

The public hearing will be part of the evening’s borough assembly meeting, which will start at 6 p.m. at City Hall.

Assembly members voted Feb. 13 to advance the ordinances to the Feb. 27 hearing. The assembly could take action on the measures after the hearing — either approve, reject or amend.

The first ordinance would specifically restrict use of the dumpsters to port and harbor users for household trash, “strictly prohibiting the dumping of hazardous waste, oil products, gasoline, large commercial fishing gear, construction debris, furniture and any other bulky or dangerous items,” Harbormaster Steve Miller explained in his report to the assembly.

Through the years, people have dumped car parts, kitchen appliances, waste oil, bags of cement and construction debris in the dumpsters.

The second ordinance would impose a $150 fine per violation of the dumping rules.

The port commission has recommended assembly approval of the new rules.

Surveillance cameras which are being installed at all of Wrangell’s port and harbor facilities will help with enforcement of the rules, port commissioners noted.

 

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