New London Considers Fines for Improper Yard Waste Disposal as City Crews Struggle to Keep Up

NEW LONDON, WI- City officials in New London say yard waste is becoming a growing problem as residents continue placing leaves and branches in gutters outside of designated pickup times. Public Works Director Robert Garske told the Board of Public Works that crews are spending too much time collecting small piles instead of focusing on street maintenance and other projects. He reminded residents that the city provides a dedicated yard waste site for drop-offs and that storm-related debris cleanups are only scheduled after major weather events. Garske has proposed a new system using door hangers to notify homeowners who violate pickup rules and to outline proper disposal steps. If ignored, residents could face a fee for noncompliance as part of a plan being considered at next month’s board meeting.