Madera reports record 5 million pounds in annual curbside cleanup; illegal dumping spikes

Public Works Operations Director Harpreet Ghandi presented the annual residential curbside cleanup report, saying the city collected more than 5 million pounds during the most recent program—approximately a 30% increase over the prior year and the largest cleanup in city history. Ghandi said metals rose from 59.27 to 104 tons, trash tonnage increased from about 1,747 to 2,135 tons, and the program collected approximately 2,267 tires and 2,507 mattresses. He reported organic-waste collections surged by roughly 631% and metals rose 76% year-over-year.

Ghandi identified a significant rise in illegal dumping and noncompliant materials, noting six code-enforcement citations were issued during the cleanup and that staff responded to an emergency sulfur hazmat spill that required third-party remediation costing about $2,604.60 and 85 hours of city labor for post-cleanup work. He said landfill tipping fees at the Madera County Fairmead Landfill have increased substantially in recent years and likely contribute to higher illegal dumping; staff cited increases from roughly $25.36 per ton (2020–2023) to $125.74 (2024–25).

Councilmembers asked about enforcement and access for residents; staff said the city will work with Mid Valley Disposal and police on potential mitigation strategies including a centralized drop-off location, targeted collection weeks, public information improvements, and enforcement steps for repeat offenders. Councilmembers also emphasized equity concerns for elderly or transport-limited residents if program logistics change. The report was received as information; staff said it will return with an update after meetings with Mid Valley Disposal.