The City of Wetaskiwin has noticed an increase in litter at city recreational areas, especially the Recreation Grounds, as local activity increases this fall.
“There is an uptick in littering this time of year and we need everyone, especially the students and athletes who are regular rec grounds users to step up and keep it clean,” says City Enforcement Services Agent Trent Jager.
The Recreation Grounds at 4514 50 Ave in Wetaskiwin includes the skate park, toddler park, baseball diamonds, and parking lot areas shared by the Manluk Centre and the Civic Centre: Twin Arenas and Drill Hall.
To combat the growing amount of litter over the next few weeks the city’s enforcement services will be increasing patrols in the area. The city also states it has met with members of Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools (WRPS) and staff at Wetaskiwin Composite High School (WCHS) to discuss concerns with the increased litter at the skate park and school parking lot.
“Littering hurts not only the environment but the community at large. It impacts the city in terms of budget, quality of life, safety, and health.”
The Recreation Grounds currently has 28 garbage bins and while they are regularly attended by city crews, garbage is often found strewn about instead of being properly placed in bins.
The city says that in terms of labour hours, $23,800 is spent annually picking up garbage from the Recreation Grounds alone.
Those caught littering will receive a fine starting at $250 for first offenders before rising to $500 and $1,000 for subsequent offences.
shaela.dansereau@pipestoneflyer.ca
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