Avon Lake Scavengers Will Need Licenses

After several homeowners expressed concern over safety and having items accidentally removed from homes by scavengers, the city is hoping to approve legislation that will require scavengers to be licensed.

“The concept wasn’t to remove the scavengers…but wanted to take into effect concerns,” City Council President Martin O’Donnell said.

The legislation is based off of Fairview Park’s legislation. The city is suggesting the cost of a license be $15 per year, an amount O’Donnell said was reasonable and not prohibitive.

O’Donnell said residents approached council last year concerned that scavengers were taken items not meant for the trash, were leaving trash in disarray and were turning concerning residents that scavenger trucks appeared to be “casing” neighborhoods.

In March, an Avon Lake man's breathing machine was taken off his driveway, with police believing it may have been accidentally taken by scavengers.

Law Director Abe Lieberman said the legislation allows for a time to be determined as to what times of day scavenging will be permitted.

Councilwoman Jennifer Fenderbosch wanted a magnetic sign the sides of each licensed vehicle with "Registered Recycler" and a phone number so an individual can contact the scavenger if an item were mistakenly taken.

Legislation, which specifies unlicensed scavengers could be charged with a minor misdemeanor, will be reviewed at three public meeting before a vote is taken.

Avon Lake's trash collection is on Monday.