Utilities Commission backs ordinance to license waste haulers, require curbside recycling and annual reports

The Utilities Commission of the City of Mount Vernon voted June 5 to recommend that city council consider an ordinance to regulate waste haulers, require recycling permits and curbside service, mandate annual reporting, and set enforcement and appeal procedures.

The draft ordinance, presented by the safety service director, would require a waste hauler license and a separate recycling permit from the Office of Code Enforcement; both permits carry a nonrefundable $100 annual fee. "No person or entity shall collect, transport, or dispose of solid waste or recyclable material for commercial purposes within the city without first obtaining a waste hauler license from the office of code enforcement," the presenter said, adding that the administration is moving the permitting responsibility from the police department to code enforcement.

The nut graf: the proposal seeks to ensure curbside recycling is provided citywide, to require visible vehicle identification and secure hauling, and to create a consistent inspection and reporting framework. The commission's recommendation moves the draft to city council for the first reading, expected to appear on the…