In a recent government meeting, Jason Randall, the Deputy Director of Solid Waste and Recycling for Pitt County, presented a comprehensive report on litter control, illegal dumping, and the management of the county's 14 convenience sites. Hired six months ago, Randall emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness and safety at these sites, which serve local residents for waste disposal.
Randall outlined the responsibilities of site attendants, who are tasked with ensuring that the sites are open during designated hours, keeping them clean, and preventing misuse by commercial entities. He noted that some site attendants have struggled with enforcing these rules, leading to issues such as improper disposal of construction debris and litter accumulation. To address these challenges, Randall has implemented stricter oversight and organized training sessions for site staff.
During his inspection of the sites, Randall identified several violations, including cluttered site houses and improper waste disposal practices. He reported that fines had been imposed for these infractions, although many were waived initially to allow contractors time to adjust to new expectations. Moving forward, Randall plans to enforce penalties more rigorously to ensure compliance.
The meeting also highlighted the need for improved signage to deter illegal dumping and littering throughout the county. Randall mentioned ongoing efforts to update the county's solid waste ordinance, which aims to strengthen enforcement capabilities against violators.
In addition to addressing current issues, Randall discussed future initiatives, including the acquisition of a grapple truck for enhanced waste collection and cleanup efforts. He emphasized the growing volume of waste generated by the county's rising population and the importance of accountability among site attendants and contractors.
Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment for its residents while tackling the ongoing challenges of waste management and illegal dumping.