Trash code sparks trash talk in Union

PAT LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com

Sure, religion and politics are volatile issues. In Union Township, add yard work and garbage to the list.

Punctuated by shouts, accusations and trash talk, Dec. 20's public hearing on a proposed property maintenance code ended abruptly. That's when a former township school board member raised a finger at outgoing Supervisor Steve Galizia.

Apparently, Galizia wasn't No. 1 in Arwood Pinkerton Jr.'s eyes.

"He's supposed to be a leader of the children's community," Galizia said. "He's flippin' the bird in a public meeting."

After the offensive salute, Galizia adjourned the session and called for police to remove Pinkerton from the meeting. While awaiting their arrival, Supervisor Kevin Guinaugh walked Pinkerton out of the meeting room.

Pinkerton could not be reached for comment Dec. 21.

Personality conflicts aside, residents questioned several portions of the code. Their overall concern was the code's enforceability and constitutionality.

"The code, as it is written, passed the solicitor and conforms to all laws," Galizia said.

Attorney Richard Harper is the district's solicitor.

One clarification dealt with the township's right of entry on a resident's or business' property. Verbal or written consent is required before a township police officer or code enforcement officer may go on the property. Barring that, a court order is required.

The use of garbage bags versus trash cans also was raised. Some audience members questioned wording that suggested a leak-proof, covered garbage container was the only acceptable form of trash receptacle.

"What about garbage bags?" resident and former township secretary Sally Byler asked.

Supervisor Pat Angiolelli said he interpreted the wording to apply to businesses.

Guinaugh raised concern over the police's role in enforcement efforts. He sought additional discussion between the supervisors and police before passing the ordinance.

"There's items in this that are not enforceable," he said. "I would not rush into judgment."

The ordinance was approved during the township's regular session, which took place after the public hearing.

"It's a necessity, and it's going to be done," Galizia said. "It's been cleared 100 percent by our solicitor."

The meeting remained contentious throughout and ended as Galizia and Byler exchanged comments.

"OK, I've had enough," Angiolelli said. "I make a motion to adjourn.

"When voices get loud, that's enough. We've already had one problem tonight. We're not having another one. I move to adjourn.

"Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas."


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