Alder Pratt proposes $5,000 fine for illegal tire dumping in Milwaukee

Milwaukee's Public Safety and Health Committee took a significant step in combating illegal tire dumping during its recent meeting, proposing a new ordinance that would raise penalties for offenders to $5,000 per incident. This move comes in response to the alarming rise in illegal dumping across the city, particularly in areas represented by Alderwoman Pratt, who reported monitoring over 38 dumping sites in her district alone.

The proposed legislation aims to deter illegal dumping by increasing the financial consequences for those caught in the act. Alderwoman Pratt highlighted a recent case where an individual was fined $3,800 for dumping thousands of tires in multiple instances, yet still profited over $17,000 from the illegal activity. "If you know that you're gonna incur this kind of charge, it will be less desirable," Pratt stated, emphasizing the need for stronger penalties.

Committee members expressed support for the initiative, with Alder Bergales questioning whether the $5,000 fine would be sufficient. Pratt acknowledged that while this is a first step, she is exploring additional measures, including criminal charges, to further strengthen the ordinance.

The discussion also touched on the responsibilities of property owners who find themselves victims of illegal dumping. While the ordinance focuses on penalizing the dumpers, concerns were raised about the financial burden placed on property owners for cleanup. Alderwoman Putt commended Pratt for her leadership on this pressing issue, which affects neighborhoods citywide.

In addition to the proposed fines, the committee is working with various city departments to establish a task force aimed at addressing illegal dumping more comprehensively. This includes investigating the sources of the dumped tires, which Pratt noted often come from tire shops and waste transporters who may be illegally disposing of tires across city and county lines.

The ordinance is set to move forward, with committee members hopeful that these measures will lead to a cleaner and safer Milwaukee.