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Board hears higher illegal-dumping cleanup costs and early results from vacant-lot giveaway
Summary
Staff reported an increase in code enforcement actions and illegal-dumping cleanups in 2024; the city estimates disposal fees at roughly $7,000–$9,000 per month and has begun a vacant-lot giveaway program with a few lots approved so far.
Kankakee City staff told the Environmental Services Utility Board on Jan. 21 that code enforcement and public-works efforts removed large amounts of illegally dumped material in 2024 and that disposal fees are a standing monthly expense.
Why it matters: Illegal dumping raises cleanup costs and strains hauling and disposal budgets; the board heard that city efforts and a vacant-lot giveaway program are intended to reduce blight and recurring illegal disposal.
What staff reported: Public works staff said code issued a substantial number of rubbish and code tickets in 2024 and that those enforcement actions led to removal of 240 tons (reported as 484,000 pounds in the presentation) of illegal dumping in one reporting period. The department recorded 476 work orders in the year for illegal dumping response, an increase of 184 work orders from the prior year.
Disposal costs: Staff said disposal fees to contractors run roughly $7,000 to $9,000 per month for hauling and disposal and that across the year the department is seeing costs "around that $75, $80 mark" (as reported at the meeting). Staff noted those disposal costs are separate from regular solid-waste pickups requested by residents.
Vacant-lot giveaway program: The department described a pilot vacant-lot giveaway program started in late third quarter and early fourth quarter of the prior year. Letters were sent to vacant-lot owners; council action has approved the transfer of a small number of lots (reported as three to five lots approved so far), with more requests pending.
Operational notes: Staff said pickup schedules for routine brush and rubbish were refined (Tuesday and Friday runs) to increase efficiency and that alley routes were maintained on a weekly loop; during heavy periods it can take about three weeks to complete all alley routes. Staff also said summer pickups and landlord cooperation helped address many complaints quickly.
Next steps: Staff will continue enforcement, the vacant-lot program and use of cameras and other measures where appropriate to reduce illegal dumping.
