City Council Workshop | May 14, 2026

The City Council Workshop for the City of Savannah held on May 14, 2026, focused extensively on the issue of illegal dumping and solid waste management. City staff presented detailed data on illegal dumping hotspots, cleanup costs, and enforcement challenges, highlighting that the first and fifth districts experience the highest incidence of illegal dumping. The discussion included current efforts such as increased staffing, use of specialized equipment, community cleanups, and education programs. Council members emphasized the need for stronger enforcement measures, including raising fines, requiring contractors to provide proof of lawful disposal, and imposing business license sanctions for violators. The city manager indicated plans to propose ordinance changes to address these issues. Additionally, the workshop covered the upcoming 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan, which will guide waste collection, disposal, and reduction efforts through 2035. Public hearings for the plan are scheduled for June and August 2026, with the plan to be shared with the council prior to the hearings. The meeting underscored the importance of balancing accessibility to convenience centers with preventing commercial misuse and illegal dumping, as well as the need for adequate staffing and court enforcement to support new policies.