“It is egregious, it’s atrocious;” new east Albany illegal dumping site frustrates residents

ALBANY, Ga. – Yet another illegal dumping site has popper up in east Albany, with this one being a major sore spot for residents…as this one is behind a plaza that’s been a point of contention for year.

Ward 1 Commissioner Jon Howard has told us about multiple illegal dump sites in his district over the past year, but this one has him and fellow east Albany residents frustrated.

“…Just like I said, it is egregious, and it’s atrocious what individuals will do in a community in the heart of east Albany,” said Jon Howard, Ward 1 Commissioner, City of Albany.

The attention of the East Albany Plaza reached a breaking point in the summer of 2023, as HVAC issues forced a decision to close down the plaza for repairs…

Unfortunately, as a pair of east Albany residents told us, the garbage that’s dumped behind the plaza is helping prevent any real change from happening.

“…It deteriorates the property values in the area. We really just need to stop and make things right. And, stop dumping in an illegal area,” said Steve Goser, east Albany resident.

“I think the area needs to be monitored somewhat to keep them from dumping. I don’t know what you could do to monitor the area with cameras or whatever to stop them from dumping out here. And, clean what’s up out here,” said Mary Blakely, east Albany resident.

There’s a sense of frustration in east Albany as a biohazard dump site like this is driving more business and stifling any revitalization attempts in east Albany.

“You want to say it’s just cruel and unusual, that individuals at night or early in the morning, would bring their household garbage, household furniture and dump it in an isolated place. And, we certainly realize with the number of stories we’ve done with illegal dumps. Sooner or later, we’re going to catch someone,” said Commissioner Howard.

Unfortunately, as Howard and members of the east Albany community continue to try and search for answers, illegal dumping is still putting a halt on any plans to revitalize the area.

Howard tells us if you see an illegal dump site to call Albany 311 and give them the address so they can properly dispose of the garbage.

Brian Roche reporting.

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