KERSHAW COUNTY, S.C. — In a bid to tackle the persistent littering problem, Kershaw County has adopted a new ordinance that significantly increases fines for littering offenses.
The move comes amidst growing concerns about the environmental impact and visual blight caused by litter across the county.
The unanimous decision to pass the ordinance followed extensive public commentary, with impassioned pleas both for and against its implementation.
Derek Shoemake, a Kershaw County Councilmember and the architect behind the ordinance emphasized its punitive measures aimed at deterring offenders, "So Currently, it's a $25 minimum fine. What we would do is increase it to $250 for the first offense and mandate eight hours of community service. The second offense, it's $500 and 16 hours of community service. The third offense is to $750 and 24 hours of community service,".
The decision to toughen the stance on littering offenses has stirred mixed reactions among Kershaw County residents.
James Steele, a resident, expressed skepticism about the necessity of such stringent measures. "It's not needed, I think the price is way out of line," he said.
On the other hand, Andrew Whitaker, another resident, welcomed the ordinance as a crucial step towards addressing the litter problem. "It is very much part and parcel of the start of a solution to what is evident for everybody to see the litter problem we have in Kershaw County," Whitaker stated.
To enforce the new ordinance, a litter patrol officer has been appointed by the Sheriff's Office.