Dade City residents demand action on sewage spills and garbage truck leaks

The City of Dade City Commission held a regular session on December 10, 2024, addressing several community concerns and upcoming events. The meeting began with a discussion about the upcoming Kumquat Festival, scheduled for January 25, 2025. Vicky announced that a fun run, the Kumquat Run, will take place on January 11, 2025, starting at the Spoke and running along the Hardy Trail. Participants are encouraged to join, as the event is designed to be accessible for all fitness levels.

Public comments were a significant part of the meeting, with residents voicing concerns about local sanitation issues. Dolores Redmond raised alarms about a recent wastewater spill near her home, describing the unpleasant odor and the inadequate cleanup efforts. She urged the city to take more effective measures to address the situation, emphasizing the need for thorough remediation rather than temporary fixes.

Sue Queen, a resident of the Heritage Hills subdivision, reported ongoing problems with the garbage collection service. She detailed incidents of fluid spills from garbage trucks damaging neighborhood roads and expressed frustration over the lack of response from the sanitation department. Queen highlighted the potential health risks posed by these spills, particularly for children and pets, and called for a review of the city's garbage collection contract.

Cheryl Musgrove, president of the Heritage Hills Homeowners Association, echoed Queen's concerns, noting that the spills have led to long-term damage to the roads. She urged the city to hold the sanitation company accountable for repairs and to ensure that their trucks are properly maintained to prevent further issues.

The commission acknowledged the residents' concerns and indicated that staff would work with the city manager to address the sanitation problems raised during public comments. The meeting concluded with a commitment to follow up on these issues, ensuring that community health and safety remain a priority.