CR&R responds to questions about scavenging at transfer station

Last week the Town Crier reported on scavenging at the Idyllwild Transfer Station as documented in the County’s inspection reports. The article included questions we submitted to CR&R, the company that provides services there This week we have answers from Nate Woods, a CR&R General Manager.

Q: Has CR&R been cited for failing to secure the station from scavenging?

A: This transfer station has had ongoing issues dating back prior to CR&R taking over operation of the transfer station with scavenging. To date this continues to be an issue.  We have and are working with Riverside County (Waste Resource and Sheriff) to help control this problem.

Q: If so, is there a time frame for compliance?

A: As stated above this is an ongoing issue.  We have and will continue to work diligently to control the issue.  

Q: Is it normal to have this kind of facility use containers with unsecurable plastic lids? 

A: As most security devices they are not 100% secure and if someone wants to trespass and break into a facility the lids are not going to stop them from accomplishing their tasks.

Q: Is it possible to secure containers with metal lids?

A: We have and do use metal lids on some containers. The issue we have ran into is that those that break into the transfer station will just use tools (bars, grinders, etc.) and will damage the lids beyond use.

Q: Is it possible to fence the site?

A: The site is fenced and secured. We have met with the Sheriff’s department and had trespassing notices issued to homeless in the area, but that has done very little to deter them from continuing to break the law.

Q: Any comment on the theft of the large water tank, County property, that was rolled off site?

A: I am not aware of any water tank that we removed from the facility.  I will have to follow up with site staff on this issue.