Constable Motz Makes Startzville’s Worst Illegal Dumpers Clean Up Their Mess

Comal County Pct. 1 Constable Charlie Motz gave some of Startzville’s worst illegal dumpers a by-invitation-only chance to clean up their mess Saturday at a “bulk pickup event.”

The 15 residents who received a knock on the door had open investigations for the criminal offense of illegal dumping but needed financial assistance to comply with the law.

Motz said illegal dumping is a huge issue in the county, in part due to the lack of facilities that can accommodate bulk goods.

The constable steps in to enforce county orders and state statutes regarding dumping after efforts by the Environmental Enforcement Division in Comal County’s Road Department fail.

The Water Oriented Recreation District of Comal County (WORD) funded Saturday’s initiative by purchasing 10 roll-off dumpsters. Comal Iron & Metals donated a dumpster specifically for metal.

Larry Ray Turner Jr. of L&B Home Improvements and Shawn Martin with Wade’s Clean Up Service helped participants who needed physical assistance.

“The event was a huge success as the team removed nearly 50 tons of rubbish, worn-out manufactured goods, and trash from the Startzville area of Canyon Lake,” Motz said. “Not only did the event have a positive impact on 15 open cases, but midday was opened to the public.”

WORD General Manager Mike Dussere described the day as an “environmental enforcement event to clean up properties around the lake.”

Pct. 1 County Commissioner Doug Leecock, whose jurisdiction includes the south side of Canyon Lake, said the team facilitated the cleanup of several properties, “which speaks volumes to organizations working together to generate fiscally responsible and tangible results.

“I look forward to a continued bright future for Precinct 1 and Comal County.”

Motz said illegal dumping affects water and soil quality, diminishes property values, attracts rodents, creates fire hazards, and causes other diseases. Most of the cases he investigates are state jail felony offenses.

The constable’s office will work with residents who are trying to clean up their properties.

Scofflaws could end up like 53-year-old Canyon Lake resident Glenn Burns, who pled guilty to illegal dumping and received a two-year sentence last week from the 207th District Court in addition to a 25-year sentence for possession of a controlled substance.

Bond conditions led to his property being cleaned up, Motz said.

To report a potential violation or to request assistance, contact the Comal County Engineer’s Office at cceo.org or call 830-608-2090.

Motz said he created the community-oriented cleanup in response to many complaints and looks forward to future events that serve the county.