Winnipeg, MB - The risk of unwanted items being targets for arsonists could soon be dramatically reduced, with the added benefit of cleaner, safer neighbourhoods for Winnipeg citizens and their families.
A motion made at City Council on May 29, 2013 called for the Winnipeg Public Service to “develop a plan for bulky waste and abandoned garbage collection service that targets problematic areas of the city in an expedient manner.” A report will be considered at tomorrow’s meeting of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services to enhance pickups of bulk waste and abandoned garbage during June and July, 2013.
“Waste accumulating in back lanes and streets results in increased potential for arson,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “We want to move quickly to rid our city of public eyesores and hazards to safety. By removing the fuel, we may be able to prevent the fire.”
Under the initiative, the City would respond to reports of bulk waste and abandoned garbage more quickly. In targeted areas of the city, pickups would take place according to the existing weekly cycle, plus one other day about three days before or after the regularly-scheduled pickup day.
“I’m pleased to see the City will be taking steps to support the safety of our citizens and the efforts of our emergency services personnel,” said Councillor Scott Fielding, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services. “By targeting our efforts, we can make a noticeable difference in our community in a short period of time.”
“Under this new initiative, it is hoped that the Winnipeg Police Service and the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service will gain extra resources to help keep our community safe,” said Councillor Ross Eadie (Mynarski Ward).
Currently, 311 customer service representatives send complaints to Community By-law Enforcement Services for investigation and also use this as an opportunity to educate the public on the proper ways to dispose of these items. By-law enforcement officers may direct property owners to remove the items, or they may classify them as abandoned garbage, in which case Water and Waste is responsible for removal.
The proposed initiative relates directly to one of the strategies for 2013 identified in the Winnipeg Police Service administrative report, Arson Unit - Activity Review, which is also on the agenda for the same meeting of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services.