BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Several neighbors of a property on Eaton Avenue spoke out about ongoing trash issues during Tuesday night’s Bethlehem City Council meeting.
Residents said they have been working for months to get the property cleared of trash that is attracting animals and insects and is blowing into others’ yards.
One resident called the “trash pile” “discouraging, disgusting and off-putting.”
Mayor J. William Reynolds said the city has been working with the homeowner to resolve the issue.
“The easiest thing to do is to convince them to clean it up now,” Reynolds said.
Laura Collins, the city’s director of community and economic development, said the city’s recourse for problem properties is through the magistrate. After verbal warnings and an inspection, cases are referred to the magisterial court. Fines may follow, but cases can be delayed and collection rates are low.
Officials said Tuesday they are working with the local magistrate to ensure the issue is addressed as a “priority.”
Officials said the city receives up to 700 trash complaints annually.
The property owner was not present on Tuesday for comment.