A COUNCILLOR is calling on his colleagues to help stop the growing problem of rubbish dumped at the Salvation Army’s donation drop-off point.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Armidale Dumaresq councillor Jim Maher said it was pure chance that brought the “Beardy Street landfill” to his attention.
“People are just dumping it here because they can’t be bothered to go out to Long Swamp Road” Cr Maher said.
“They should be fined and I think Council needs to do something to help the Salvation Army and other charities facing this problem.”
Cr Maher asked council officers to assess the issue before reporting back to Council.
“I am hoping they will have some answers to assist the Salvation Army and other charities in Armidale,” Cr Maher said
“People are robbing the charities that do such good work in our community.
“It is the cost of volunteers’ time as well as the opportunity cost at not being able to assist the community.”
The Salvation Army volunteers are being forced to clean-up the donation point daily, which is scattered with rubbish and unsellable goods, including hazardous waste.
Armidale Salvation Army captain Dale Murray said people were abusing the charity service.
“We are really appreciative of Cr Maher and the council’s help,” Captain Murray said.
“It isn’t improving and it is a real concern for the Salvation Army because the amount of rubbish being dumped is costing us.
“Our volunteers are losing time every day and it’s taking away from the work we do for the community.
“It is diverting us from helping our community in need.
“And not only is there the issue of people dumping unsellable rubbish, but they are stealing goods.
“Something needs to be done because we can’t go on.”