The Town of Niagara plans to step up enforcement against illegal dumping and unlicensed junkyard activity following growing concerns over public safety and roadway accessibility.
At the intersection of James Avenue and Hyde Park Boulevard, heaps of construction debris, discarded trailers, and other waste have been accumulating along public roads. Town Supervisor Sylvia Virtuoso says the area, which is municipal property, has effectively become an unauthorized dumping ground.
“This is a town road, and people are illegally dumping construction waste here,” Virtuoso said. “It’s dangerous, and we’re not allowing it anymore.”
During a special meeting held April 22nd, town officials outlined a series of enforcement actions including the installation of surveillance cameras and stricter regulations requiring only licensed junkyard operators to remain in business.
Several junkyard owners attended the meeting, including George Satarino, who expressed support for the cleanup efforts but emphasized the need for consistent follow-through.
“Enforcement has to be ongoing,” Satarino said. “You can’t just meet today and forget about it for months. If someone isn’t following the rules, they should be taken to court and fined.”
Town of Niagara Police Chief Craig Guiliani noted that the cluttered roads pose a significant hazard.
“This area has essentially become an illegal dump,” Guiliani said. “It’s creating serious issues for emergency responders who can’t access certain areas when needed.”
Town of Niagara Targets Illegal Dumping and Junkyard Violations