Follansbee to develop garbage appeals form
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FOLLANSBEE - While not making any widespread changes to the city's garbage regulations, Follansbee Council is willing to consider some accommodations for residents on a case-by-case basis.
The city, in recent months, has been stepping up its efforts to enforce many long-time garbage regulations, in particular in areas such as proper storage of garbage. However, it hasn't gone over well with some residents who have expressed concerns about being able to meet all of the rules.
"We had residents come in and request an appeals process," Mayor Scott McMahon said during Monday's council meeting.
Councilman at large John Schwertfeger said he doesn't think any changes need to be made to the garbage regulations themselves and also doesn't believe there is a need for a formal appeals process.
"I think it would be best on a case-by-case basis," he said, noting the idea would be for residents who would like some accommodation to call the City Manager's Office, with City Manager Chris Manack-Stover working with staff to review the requests and consider whether to grant any adjustments for residents.
Ward 4 Councilman Rudy Cipriani agreed but said there is the potential for widespread requests that would be too much for council to address. Cipriani also noted much of the regulations have been on the books for more than 30 years.
"The ordinance has been in since 1993. The city never abided by the ordinance," he said.
McMahon suggested the development of a form for residents to fill out, which then could be considered.
Officials indicated much of Monday's discussion stemmed from a request by a resident who had difficulty taking her garbage can from her house down to the street and then carrying it back up a hillside once collected.
Bill Secrist, head of public works, said that situation may have an alternative answer, as he believes the garbage can be taken to the back of the property, near an area his crews already collect garbage from neighboring residents.
Secrist, though, did express concerns with allowing too many deviations.
"You have 2,400 customers. You're going to have 2,400 special tickets," he warned of the potential surge in appeals. "You made the rules. Stick to it."