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Weights & Measures committee considers progressive fines after repeat Dollar General violations
Summary
After March inspections uncovered new pricing violations, the committee discussed moving from a flat penalty structure toward progressive fines for repeat offenders; Director Ted Dyment will consult the County Attorney and follow up.
The Wayne County Public Works Committee heard an enforcement update from Weights & Measures Director Ted Dyment, who said pricing accuracy inspections completed in March turned up several new violations and re-inspection failures. Committee members raised concerns about repeat problems at national discount chains and questioned whether the historic $100 penalty serves as an effective deterrent.
Barry VanNostrand said the current fines "may not serve as a sufficient deterrent," prompting discussion of a progressive penalty system in which fines increase for repeated violations. Dyment cautioned that a blanket increase could disproportionately harm small, locally owned businesses and reported he will consult with the County Attorney about structuring penalties differently for large corporations versus small businesses. Dyment also said he already issued an escalated fine in one case this month: a first complaint resulted in a $100 fine and a repeated report led to a $500 fine. The committee asked Dyment to follow up with the County Attorney and return with options.
