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Resident urges stronger litter enforcement; supervisors ask staff for recommendations
Summary
A Madison Heights resident urged Amherst County supervisors to adopt stiffer fines and accountability measures for roadside litter; the board asked staff to prepare recommendations, citing past efforts such as trash cans at county buildings and volunteer pickups.
Kara Jones, a Madison Heights resident, told the Amherst County Board of Supervisors on April 15 that litter along county roads is worsening and urged stronger enforcement and higher fines to deter illegal dumping and roadside littering.
“I have a really big concern with the trash problem in our county,” Jones said during the public comment period. She cited Glade Road, Amelon, Odinsbow and Wildwood and described having seen heavy litter on roads in other states with strict fines. “With a $15,000 fine, you’re gonna really think hard before you throw a piece of trash out the window,” Jones said.
Board members acknowledged past efforts — adding trash cans at county buildings, working with volunteers and engaging VDOT — and asked staff to provide a recommendation on combating litter, including enforcement and public information strategies. “If you could come back, you got a call? I’ll put together a recommendation, bring staff together and bring it back to you, the board supervisor,” said Supervisor Bryant as the board discussed follow-up.
Supervisors noted the county has previously used volunteer cleanups, required businesses to provide trash receptacles in some locations, and coordinated with VDOT and civic groups to clear major corridors. They asked staff to compile options and present a plan to strengthen accountability and reduce recurring litter hotspots.
