NORTH PORT, Fla. — The city of North Port is dealing with a major illegal dumping issue in the southeast section of town.
This is mainly happening along Wylam road, around the corner from Brandon Smith's house.
"It's annoying," said Smith. "Everyone in the house gets pissed off."
He's lived in the area for about five years. According to him, the problem has gotten out of control in the last two years. He said the city came through and cleaned the entire area up two years ago, "but within the last year the mess is back."
The city's public works department stepped up and added extra crews to that area and put signs up. It's starting to cost the city and taxpayers because the city is using more resources, fuel, and giving employees overtime.
"It's not fair," said neighbor Doreen Dileo.
"It's a big problem, and we want to try and stop it," said Michael Fear, the director of public works.
The North Port Police Department has increased patrols in the area over the summer. ABC Action News has learned officers have made several arrests.
There are several penalties if you are caught dumping including a fine, impact on your driver's license, and it could be considered a felony.
