Got Junk? Got Code Enforcement?

For entertainment, I read daily the Rant and Rave in the local newspaper. Now, I know some people here think that what's written there is so horrible that they can't stand it. Others think it is just for those too afraid to say something in public. Nonetheless, I read it nearly daily as I find it an interesting window into our area.

Lately, there have been several people writing in about the advertising signs posted around both Valdosta and the county. They note that the messaging on these signs is in direct conflict with Valdosta's new litter campaign slogan. I can only assume they mean the yellow "Got Junk?" signs.

For example

Comment on New Glitter Signs and a comment about the yellow signs .

I got to thinking about this and wondered if people are complaining perhaps they could actually do something about it. So, when I saw Fire Chief Guyton the other evening, I asked him about it.

I asked does he read the rant and rave, he laughed and said "for entertainment". I guess that makes at least two of us. Then I asked about the complaints about the signs posted on the power poles. He said, yes any sign posted in the right of way is a code violation. He continued to say that the correct way to report a violation is to call code enforcement. I looked up the number for this on the Lowndes County Web site and found the number to be 229-671-2730. Chief Guyton said that after hours and on the weekend, the code enforcement option will ring through to the cell phone of the on duty officer. Emergencies are handled immediately and non-emergencies are generally handled the next day.

I think that it was Laura Minchew from Lake Park that was instrumental in getting code enforecment procedures for contact and action after hours because of some issues of illegal access to the lakes down in Lake Park. If so, thanks Laura.

So, what is one to do about those signs that are all around the county advertising everything from houses, to land, to puppies, to junk? Call Lowndes County code enforcement and give the location of the violation and they will collect the signs. First offenders can pay a "recovery" fee to get the signs back. Second and following offenses are assessed a fine.

I guess it boils down to this: "Got Junk?" call code enforcement with the location and have them come get it.