Residents of Regina’s North Central neighbourhood are facing a growing issue of piled up garbage in their community. Matthew Wesley, who has been working to clean up the area for nine years, expressed frustration at the overwhelming amount of waste in the back alleys. He described encountering hazardous items such as needles, glass, diapers, and rotten food, making the cleanup process dangerous. Wesley highlighted that a significant portion of the trash is not generated by North Central residents, but is being illegally dumped by people from other communities.
Regina city councillors and the North Central Community Association (NCCA) acknowledge that the problem of garbage dumping in North Central is largely due to individuals from outside the community discarding items like mattresses and old appliances in alleyways and vacant lots. The executive director of NCCA, Pat Faulconbridge, emphasized that the issue escalates during the thawing period when the community undertakes a major cleanup initiative through the ‘Renew’ program. Despite efforts to clean up the area and paint over graffiti, Faulconbridge noted that the trash quickly reappears, undoing the progress made by community volunteers and youth.
Faulconbridge highlighted the negative stigma that surrounds North Central and expressed hope for a shift in perceptions. She urged people to refrain from sharing images of the garbage and instead volunteer to assist with cleanup efforts. Despite challenges, there are individuals in the community who take pride in North Central and are dedicated to maintaining its cleanliness. Wesley emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in keeping the streets clear of garbage, mentioning that the task of cleaning up is often underappreciated.
The ongoing issue of garbage accumulation in North Central has persisted for years, with Wesley and other community members facing an uphill battle in addressing the problem. The abundance of waste, including dangerous materials, poses a significant challenge to volunteers attempting to clean up the back alleys and vacant lots. While efforts have been made to organize community cleanups and address graffiti, the recurrence of trash dumping remains a persistent concern, highlighting the need for sustained solutions to prevent further buildup and maintain the cleanliness of the neighbourhood.
Despite the tireless efforts of individuals like Matthew Wesley and community volunteers, the problem of garbage in North Central continues to be a pressing issue. The influx of waste from outside sources exacerbates the challenge of maintaining a clean environment, leading to frustration among those dedicated to improving the neighbourhood. The efforts of the NCCA and city councillors to address the issue through cleanup initiatives and graffiti removal demonstrate a commitment to combating the problem, but the recurrence of garbage dumping underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of illegal waste disposal in the community. Overall, the residents of North Central are faced with an ongoing struggle to combat garbage accumulation and alter the negative perception of their neighbourhood, while calling for greater support and participation from the broader community to ensure a cleaner and safer environment for all.
