Peoria City Council Observer Report

​ On August 10, 2021, Council spent much time discussing whether or not to charge fee to businesses who currently dispose of old tires. 
         The City currently spends many staff hours removing old tires that have been disposed of improperly, especially by unknown persons on the south side of Peoria, as well as incurring cost of disposal.  The resolution put before the Council would have required all businesses that dispose of tires to register and pay $50 fee in addition to keeping records of tire disposal for review by the city staff. 
         One area of concern was providing means to cover cost of staff time,  both administrative and legal, in enforcing this measure.  General feeling was that fines charged for improper record keeping and illegal disposal would help cover City costs.  City Manager Patrick Urich will reach out to the Peoria County State’s Attorney’s Office to collaborate with prosecution of illegal dumping.  Councilor Sid Ruckreigel asked Urich to reach out to the Peoria County Board to collaborate efforts on management of tire disposal as this is an issue for the County, as well.
         It was recognized that most businesses follow proper disposal.  A substitute motion removing the fee was eventually passed 7-4, with Councilors Beth Jensen, Denise Jackson, Chuck Grayeb and Andre Allen voting no. 
         Interim Community Development Director Joseph Dulin reminded the Council of the Tireless Project.  This project collects unwanted tires from city residents throughout the year.  Residents can dispose up to 20 tires, with the first ten free, then $1 per tire.  Businesses may not participate.  The schedule for the year can be found at www.appreciatepeoria.com/opportunities.  The next scheduled day is October 30.
—— Connie Romanus, Observer