Aspinwall police to start cracking down on garbage ordinance violators

Aspinwall police want residents to start taking better care of their refuse.

Police Chief David Nemec said people are leaving their trash cans and lids along alleys and are not following a borough ordinance.

“Garbage, rubbish and bulky wastes shall be set out no earlier than 5 p.m. on the day preceding the day designation for collection and removal,” the ordinance states. “The emptied container must be removed from the curb line no later than midnight of the pickup day. No garbage or rubbish containers may be placed or maintained in front of a dwelling, or areas of public visibility, except during the times listed in this section.”

The ordinance states any person, firm or corporation who fails to comply with the ordinance may be subject to a fine of no less than $100 and no more than $1,000 per each violation.

Nemec held up the written warning issued by his department for the violation as part of his report during the July 11 council meeting.

“It’s been in the books,” Nemec said. “This isn’t anything brand new.”

Mayor Joseph Noro backed up the chief.

“It’s a safety issue, and we’re going to take care of it,” Noro said.

The safety issue, the chief said, is scattered cans and lids causes problems for emergency responders and others traveling down alleys and roadways.

He said such receptacles need to at least be brought into the yard after collection.

Other safety news

Safety markings, similar to rumble strips, will be installed along Second Street, Emerson Avenue and 11th Street by the end of the month.

Nemec said they will be used to help slow down aggressive drivers along those roads.

Some markings will be accompanied by painted messages like “Slow” to further bolster traffic calming.