‘This has to stop’: Philadelphians push City Council for more illegal dumping prevention

Have a question about Philly’s neighborhoods or the systems that shape them? PlanPhilly reporters want to hear from you! Ask us a question or send us a story idea you think we should cover.

Illegal dumping remains a big issue in the city of Philadelphia, residents testified during a City Council hearing Monday. They want City Council to fund efforts that will finally end it.

Joyce Brooks, president of the Block Captain Committee of Nicetown, said her North Philly neighborhood has experienced dumping for decades.

“This issue has resulted in hazardous environmental conditions and blight,” she said. “This has to stop.”

The goal of the Committee on Streets and Services hearing was to evaluate the effectiveness of the city’s current enforcement of anti-dumping laws, said Councilmember Anthony Phillips (District 9), who sponsored the legislation authorizing the hearing.

“Are we holding illegal dumpers accountable?” Phillips said. “What improvements can be made to prevent these efforts of illegal dumping?”