(Updated) – The Cass County Landfill and Recycling Center have issued a statement with regard to improper recycling in Lewis. The statement says “Over the last few months, we have seen a disturbing problem when we empty the recycling containers located in Lewis. An abundance of trash (That in no way could be confused as recyclable material) has been found in the bins. The most grotesque material” they said, “Has been human/animal feces and used toilet paper.” Landfill Manager Brandi Mericle says it’s been very frustrating.

When trash and biohazardous material is mixed in with the legitimate recycling, the entire load is contaminated and is landfilled. The bins are for RECYCLABLE MATERIAL ONLY. Brandi says it’s not just a problem in Lewis.

If trash and hazardous waste continues to show up in [The Lewis recycling containers, Mericle says the landfill “We will pull these bins from the Lewis Community. This is a drastic action that we would rather avoid, so we are asking for your help.” Another problem area is in the northwest corner of the Atlantic Shopping Plaza, where continued dumping of trash outside the bins puts that location at risk of being removed.

Brandi says people have asked why cameras can’t be installed to catch the violators.

(She said because that’s private property, the landfill has no right to set up cameras.)

It would be up to the property owner to install security cameras if they chose to do so. The only solution for Atlantic, she says, would be for the City to find a permanent location for the bins.

Mericle says if people are confused about what is recyclable material, call her office at 712-243-1991. And, please report illegal dumping to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office at 712-243-2206. Fines for the offense can range from $625 to as much as $3,000.