Title
a. Receive an update in response to Board Referral No. 2023.20, submitted by Board of Supervisor Church, addressing littering fines for illegal dumping and littering of solid waste and refuse; and
b. Provide further direction, as appropriate.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive an update in response to Board Referral No. 2023.20, submitted by Board of Supervisor Church, addressing littering fines for illegal dumping and littering of solid waste and refuse; and
b. Provide further direction, as appropriate.
SUMMARY
The County of Monterey (County) has long had illegal dumping and littering issues. Board Referral No. 2023.20 sought to amend the Monterey County Code to increase fines to deter littering, prevent illegal dumping, promote an enjoyable environment and protect our natural resources. The purpose of amending the code was to facilitate an effective response to hold those responsible for illegal dumping and littering by clarifying code violations, increased penalties, and updated language to emphasize local roles and responsibilities.
DISCUSSION
On February 27, 2024, the Board of Supervisors adopted an ordinance revising Sections 10.41.010 and 10.41.040 of the Monterey County Code, raising fines for littering in unincorporated areas of the county. The new fines include up to $2,500 for a first violation, up to $5,000 for a second violation within twelve months, and up to $10,000 for a third or any subsequent violation within twelve months.
Also on February 27, 2024, Environmental Health, on behalf of the Illegal Dumping and Litter Abatement Task Force (IDLATF), presented an update to the Board of Supervisors regarding the potential use of surveillance cameras as a deterrent to illegal dumping in the County. The Board approved a request to purchase cameras and supportive monitoring and connectivity subscription services. On July 16, 2024, an agreement with Epic iO was appro...
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