Tonight Councilman David A. Salvatore (Ward 14) introduced an amendment to the Code of Ordinances that would help homeowners and tenants be better informed about their responsibilities when it comes to waste and recycle barrel offenses.

The amendment to the Code of Ordinances proposed by Councilman Salvatore would change the fine structure as it relates to trash and recycle barrels being left out past the designated curfew. The first offense will be a warning, and all subsequent offenses will be tiered beginning with $25 for the second offense (first after warning), $50 for the third, and $100 for all subsequent fines – not to exceed $1500.00 per calendar year. If a homeowner or tenant is fined four times or more they will be considered a chronic violator and will be subject to appear before the Providence Municipal Court.

“For too long residents have not had a clear understanding of their responsibilities when it comes to the storage of their trash and recycle barrels,” Stated Councilman David A. Salvatore. “The fines – to date – have not been consistent with the ordinance and the amendment to the code will address that issue. The amendment will also educate residents who might not know the statute.”

The amendment to the Code of Ordinances will be sent to the Committee on Ordinances before the Council will vote on the matter.

Councilman Salvatore continued, “It is important that each and every resident have clear and predictable knowledge of the workings of our City. Implementing a warning phase will help residents better understand their responsibilities for the storage of their trash and recycle bins.