BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (AP) — A southwestern Michigan city says it's cracking down on illegal dumping as it grapples with a problem that's both an eyesore and expensive.
Benton Harbor officials said Thursday authorities have arrested four people in connection with illegal dumping. The Public Safety Department is working with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality on investigations.
Efforts to combat it include increasing fines and adding the cost of trash removal for those caught dumping it. Officials also might seize vehicles used for dumping.
Officials say the city has spent roughly $170,000 in the past few years on dumpsters to remove illegally dumped trash. They say there are piles of rubbish and debris in alleys, on roadsides, vacant lots and elsewhere throughout the city.
