London is creating a blacklist of items that could be banned from scrapyards in an attempt to curb theft of copper and other metals
The items include street signs, historic markers, shopping carts and manhole covers.
Coun. Stephen Orser says this kind of theft is a costly and potentially dangerous crime.
“If there's no place to sell it or pawn it, they are not going to steal it,” he says.
“The greater good is protecting the citizens of Ward 4 and the citizens of London.”
Orser wants photo ID and a thumb print to be requirements from customers selling scrap metal.
But some in the recycling industry say it’s a proposal that’s going too far.
George Zubick, of John Zubick Ltd., says many of the items on Orser’s list have legitimate sources. A blanket prohibition could see the material sent to a landfill.
Besides, he says, internal controls are already in place.
“We will ask questions of anyone who comes in with material that they maybe should not have,” he says.
Zubick adds customers already provide their name, signature and licence plate.
“There should be a roundtable discussion with the people that are in the industry, and that discussion should not only include the city, but the enforcement agencies as well.”
Police say they see this kind of theft often.
“A lot of the thefts essentially occur because of the expected payout. The people stealing the items don't want the actual item, they want the money that can come from it,” Const. Jenny Van Aarsen says.
But Orser has little sympathy for the impact changes would potentially have on scrapyards and pawn shops.
“It absolutely breaks my heart, but if your home has been broken into or your shed or garage, you are more important to me.”
Orser’s proposal will go to the community and protective services committee on July 21.
