Recycling fine scam warning

Palmerston North residents are being urged to call the Police if they are approached by someone purporting to be a Palmerston North City Council officer issuing a fine for placing rubbish in their recycling bins.

Over the weekend Council was made aware of the scam which is being carried out by a group of people. The police have been called and are investigating the matter.

Water and waste services manager Rob Green says the scam involves people pretending to be Council officers who are issuring fines to those who have placed non-recyclable items in the recycling bins.

“We’ve had reports of a woman knocking on residents’ doors, alerting them to a fine and offering them a discount if they provide cash payment.”

“Sadly,” says Mr Green “some members of the public have been taken in by the scam.”

Rob Green says there are four important things to remember here:
· Palmerston North City Council does not fine people for misusing their recycling bins.
· All Council infringement notices (except parking related fines) are issued on official Council letterhead.
· All Council officers charged with enforcement responsibilites are issued a Warrant by the Crown which they must carry on them.

· Council officers do not take payments out in the field, all payments have to be made directly to Pamerston North City Council.

Inspector Brett Calkin says residents should be wary of anyone knocking on their door and issuing fines for not recycling properly.

“If someone comes knocking on your door for this reason then please call the Police immediately. It would be helpful if you could also provide a description and or a vehicle registration number,” he says.

Inspector Calkin says he wants to take this opportunity to warn other residents that if they are aware of any suspicious activity in their area or anyone coming to their door and asking for money then residents should ask for identification from that person. The identification should display the agency they are from. If the person refuses to produce it or becomes aggressive then please call the Police immediately."

Meanwhile, Rob Green says Palmerston North City Council staff are visiting residents in the streets that we’re aware have been targeted, to alert them to the issue.

Rob Green urged residents to first and foremost report the matter to the Police on 351 3600 and then to alert Council on 356 8199.

Ends

© Scoop Media