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December 17, 2007
Durham Behind in Litter Enforcement Belies High Resident Priority for Curb Appeal
Over the same period Wake County lodged 2.5 times more charges for littering per 10,000 residents. Durham lodged half as many charges for littering compared to the Statewide average per 10,000 residents. The problem is exacerbated by inadequate amounts budgeted for clean up.
Some experts believe people litter for two reasons, 1) There is little risk of being held accountable and 2) People believe someone or some agency is responsible for picking it up. Many agencies are empowered to enforce litter laws including ABC and the Highway Patrol as well as Durham Police Department and Durham County Sheriffs.
Overall clean up including litter scores is a high priority with Durham residents. In a previous study 94.5% of Durham residents agreed or strongly agreed that “Durham’s appearance and physical upkeep should be a high community priority.” Studies also link conditions like litter as an element that creates a sense that no one is in charge, empowering criminals.
The North Carolina Travel & Tourism Coalition recommends development of a plan and consensus agenda of reforms to take to the General Assembly in 2009.
RELATED ARTICLES:Cleaning Up Our Act [February 4, 2004] Resident and Visitor Feedback Spurs Three New Appearance Initiatives
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