Halifax council looking for new solutions to combat littering

Halifax council is looking for new solutions to an old problem: littering.

Nancy Hartling, the councillor for Prospect Road-St. Margarets, said there is a concerning spot on Route 333 on the way to Pegg’s Cove, N.S.

“This is the single most travelled road for tourists in Nova Scotia and we introduce them with piles and piles of litter and debris on the side of the road,” Hartling said. “What can we do when it comes to tarp loads? What can we do with enforcement?

“What can we do to make the 333 safer and cleaner for the municipality?”

Halifax council discussed the issue at their regular meeting on Tuesday as they looked at a motion around forming a comprehensive litter strategy.

Mayor Andy Fillmore noted litter is a livability issue as well as an environmental one.

“The short answer, specifically for littering, there’s not fines being issued,” said Liz Mance, manager of policy and enforcement with Solid Waste Resources.

Staff said contractors with unsecured tarps are receiving tickets.

At the meeting, council voted to review its bylaws and propose changes to help the proactive and reactive sides. They also decided to write a letter to the province seeking collaboration to increase litter enforcement around highways and roadways.

Hartling added an amendment to the motion looking for further discussion around an enforcement officer at a cost of $90,000.

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