Scioto County Commissioners think it might be time to try something different in the ongoing fight against litter in Southern Ohio. “We feel like we need to do something a little bit more innovative and out of the box,” said Commissioner Bryan Davis.
Davis made the comment in response to a media question about progress in filling the vacant enforcement officer position with the Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District. The agency is also in charge of fighting littering and illegal dumping in both counties. The enforcement officer was dismissed last October and the positing has not been filled.
The commissioner said part of the reason for the delay is that the commissioners would like to restructure the way the agency works. “We feel like we need better representation for Scioto County. We would like to do some things a little bit differently.”
But since the agency is a joint effort between Scioto and Lawrence County, Lawrence County Commissioners have to be on board with any changes. Davis said with most government agencies facing budget tightening due to COVID-19, it’s a perfect time to look at changes. However, he said the Lawrence -Scioto Solid Waste Management District is in good financial shape. “The solid waste district is financially healthy. We’re continuing to function. Doing recycling and relying on the sheriff’s departments for urgent enforcement issues.”
Davis said that so far, talks with Lawrence County have gone well. “We’re almost there. We had a really good discussion. I think we’re going to see some movement here soon. We can’t say too much yet, as we’re still waiting for responses from them.”
Litterbugs Don’t Realize The Damage They Do
Illegal dumping and littering continue to blight our area. Back in February, the last full month when inmates picked up trash, 8.7 tons of garbage was collected from roadways by work crews.
The commissioner said, “Unfortunately, we have litterbugs. People who don’t have any self-respect or no care or concern for their community.”
Davis said people don’t realize the damage they do when they leave garbage by the side of the road. “People need to realize that when they do that, they are hurting this community in ways they never thought.” He said that when companies or businesses looking to set up shop in the county see the litter, it makes a bad impression. “When they see the trash and the discarded sofas, and mattresses on the side of the road… they may very well, and have before, say they aren’t coming here.”
The commissioner had one plea for area residents. “If you are driving and have trash, keep it in your car until you get home. Take personal responsibility. ”
