The Ellis County Press: Violators ticketed for trash in Ferris

Violators ticketed for trash in Ferris
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Editor on 10/26/2000 00:00:00


DIANA BUCKLEY
Ellis County Press
FERRIS — Two weeks ago the city council promised to get tough on illegal
dumping, and five citations have already been written. 'There were three at the
Ferris FINA,' said Code Enforcement Officer Tim Birdwell. 'One at Christ
Church, and one in the alley.' He indicated that all the violators were from
outside the city limits and that all agreed to stop the activity.
'How did you get the citations?' asked council member Lori Perkins. 'Did you
catch them?'
'Yes,' said Birdwell. 'I visually observed them taking trash out of the
vehicles and putting it in the dumpster.' Birdwell said he was in a semi-marked
car when he was watching dumpsters where he suspected illegal dumping would take
place.
'I was writing one ticket when another guy pulled up and started dumping,'
Birdwell said, eliciting laughter throughout the room.
'How do you decide how much the fine is?' asked Perkins.
'That is up to a judge,' said Birdwell. 'I just issue an order to appear in
court.'
Council members and other officials feel word will get out that dumping is
ticketed in Ferris. 'I think we can curb it somewhat,' Birdwell said.