Efforts to address illegal dumping off Flagstaff Road in Jim Thorpe continue as local officials and volunteers combat persistent littering in the scenic area.

Over the past five years, officials said Thursday, approximately 992 discarded tires have been removed from the site. Despite these cleanups at least an additional 100 tires remain.

During Thursday night’s council meeting, President Greg Strubinger and others discussed measures to tackle the problem including enforcement and community involvement.

“It’s a shame because it’s a beautiful area,” Strubinger said. “The problem extends beyond tires, with items such as bath surrounds and other debris frequently discarded along the road.”

Connor Rodgers, a councilman and key volunteer in the cleanup efforts, said cleanup is challenging due to difficulty accessing the site, which has steep terrain and dense vegetation.

“Many of [the tires] are very hard to access,” he said. “But we do have cleanups twice a year in the spring and fall.”

To deter future dumping, the borough has budgeted funds for installing fixed camera systems in the area. Strubinger and others said they are hopeful the cameras will serve as a deterrent and aid in identifying offenders.

Additionally, discussions are underway about purchasing license plate readers to monitor vehicles entering and leaving the area.

“We have talked about those readers previously but I know the price tag is steep,” he said. “If it can help address the problem though, it is something we really need to think about.”

Police Chief Joe Schatz said individuals caught dumping on Flagstaff Road could face fines of up to $1,000.

“Offenders can be required to appear before a district magistrate,” he said. “Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the police right away. Once we get the funds to get our cameras in, we can position correctly to see if anything is in the back of a vehicle to be dumped.”

Borough officials expressed frustration at the continued disregard for the area’s natural beauty.

“It’s ridiculous,” Strubinger said.

Rodgers issued a warning to anyone dumping off Flagstaff or any borough road.

“It is not going to be tolerated,” he said.