Kevin,

Thank you for bringing this issue up.

I also believe the city should reconsider its trash collection policy as well.

As a nonprofit executive director (Piedmont Housing Alliance) working to revitalize city neighborhoods, I consistently visit neighborhoods throughout the city. I notice the greatest trash accumulation is typically in the poorest of neighborhoods.

When a low income renter or home owner has to choose whether to purchase groceries, pay the electric bill, etc., or purchase trash stickers, they will most likely not choose to purchase stickers. Rather, they accumulate trash or they dispose of it illegally.

Recently, I visited a rental property that was for sale in Fifeville and when the current landlord and I entered the house we discovered over twenty bags of trash in the living room. Obviously, the landlord was upset, but the symbolic aspect of the current policy was very clear. When the landlord and I walked around the adjoining properties we noted additional trash bags in back yards along with other debris.

I think the reevaluation of the current policy would serve the city well in its effort to encourage more home ownership and reinvestment in its neighborhoods.

Respectfully,

Stu Armstrong (electronic mail, April 4, 2000)