A forced door from a break-in at the Wallagoot Waste Transfer Station.
A string of break-ins and thefts at Council-owned facilities could lead to heightened security measures, including the end of cash payments at the shire’s tips.
Council’s Waste Services Manager, Alan Gundrill said thieves had been targeting waste transfer stations since late last year, with more break-ins reported in Eden and Wolumla over the Easter weekend.
“It’s disappointing, costly and we are now considering preventative measures,” Mr Gundrill said.
“Advice from the Police Crime Investigations Unit has been to install closed circuit television cameras and to no longer offer cash as a payment method at all waste transfer stations.
“CCTV is an additional expense the community could do without and implementing cashless payments would be an inconvenience to many of our customers.
“Yet, if these break-ins and thefts persist, we will be forced to implement extra measures.
“Local Police would obviously like to hear from anyone with information relating to the break-ins at our waste facilities.
“You can do this in person by calling Bega Police Station, or anonymously through the Crimestoppers hotline or website.
“Each break-in is a significant expense to Council and the community. The rising cost of lost cash and equipment, repairs and replacement of broken infrastructure, and time spent in reporting and implementing corrective actions is borne by every local ratepayer and tip user.
“Our staff work hard to provide a highly-valued community service, and it is very disappointing that a few individuals should add cost and inconvenience to the work we deliver.”
