During a recent Pitt County government meeting, Jason Randall, the Deputy Director of Solid Waste and Recycling, presented a comprehensive report on litter control and the management of the county's 14 collection sites. Hired six months ago, Randall emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness and safety at these sites, which span from Bethel to Pactolus.

Randall outlined the responsibilities of site attendants, stressing that collection sites are intended for personal use by citizens only, prohibiting commercial dumping. He noted that some small business owners mistakenly use these sites for disposal, which complicates waste management efforts. To combat this, site attendants are tasked with guiding citizens on proper disposal practices and ensuring that non-collectibles are removed safely.

The report highlighted several initiatives undertaken to improve site conditions, including inspections of all sites, the organization of tools, and the implementation of strict cleanliness standards. Randall shared that in May, his team removed seven tons of illegal waste, including construction debris, from the sites. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to pressure wash and repair various collection sites to enhance their appearance and functionality.

Despite these efforts, Randall reported numerous violations, including improper disposal of items and inadequate site maintenance. He indicated that fines would be imposed for continued non-compliance, although all previous fines were waived to allow contractors time to adjust to new expectations.

Commissioners expressed their support for Randall's initiatives, with discussions on the need for better signage to deter littering and illegal dumping. The county is also in the process of acquiring a grapple truck to enhance enforcement capabilities against littering.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving waste management and maintaining a clean environment, with Randall emphasizing accountability among site attendants and contractors to ensure compliance with established standards.