At the end of McCurdy Road just of Highway 97 in Kelowna, lies a mound of trash.
From a mattress to baby strollers, pails of oil and old couches, the piece of private property has become an illegal dump site.
Despite no trespassing signs, several people are living on the land in tents and makeshift homes.
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A barn that sits on the property belongs to the City of Kelowna and Bylaw Services Manger David Gazley, says the area has been the site of illegal dumping for some time now.
“Civic Operations is looking into cleaning it in the next few days, I believe,” he said.
As far as the transient camps, they are on private land and while the city is investigating, it’s the owner of the property who must take steps to remove the individuals.
“If the owner does not (do anything) we can issue tickets for misuse of zone under the Zoning Bylaw and Unsightly Premises, under the Good Neighbour Bylaw,” said Gazley.
RCMP can step in at the request of the owner if those living on the property refuse to leave.
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Garbage from the site also litters Mill Creek and that falls under the Regional District of the Central Okanagan’s waste reduction program, while the City of Kelowna must maintain their own properties.
According to Gazley, the city is now aware of the magnitude of the issue.
If you see someone illegally dumping garbage, report them but calling the BC Conservation Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-800-465-4336.
@Jen_zee
jen.zielinski@bpdigital.ca
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