County staff propose broader 'litter from vehicle' rules and tighter large‑truck definitions

At the July 16 work session, county staff (S2) presented two related code updates: an amendment expanding the definition of litter from vehicles and a revision to the county’s definition of a 'large truck' and associated restricted routes.

On litter, staff said the changes extend coverage beyond obvious highway commercial carriers to include smaller contractor pickups and private vehicles with unsecured payloads that blow debris into public rights-of-way. The draft would expand the enumerated vehicle types and make enforcement easier for marshals; staff also said 30% of fines collected would continue to be distributed to Keep Cherokee Beautiful.

On large trucks, staff proposed lowering the gross-vehicle-weight threshold to 28,000 pounds, applying an overall-length test (over 30 feet) or counting vehicles with more than three axles regardless of whether axles are actively in use. The stated goal is to capture empty or lightly loaded vehicles that nonetheless create road wear or safety concerns on roads not designed for heavy trucks. Commissioners asked whether standard concrete-mixing trucks would be caught by the proposed thresholds and whether the change aligns with CDL thresholds; staff and commissioners agreed further definition and consistency checks were needed so routine deliveries are not unintentionally criminalized.

Staff said the road list that identifies restricted routes is reviewed periodically and that recent bridge replacements remove two crossings from load restrictions. Commissioners requested enforcement planning (signage audits and scheduled marshal patrols) and a clearer list of roads in alphabetical order for easier reference.

No ordinance was adopted at the work session; both proposals proceed to the public‑hearing process.