Most Falconites agree with at least two community-wide issues: Growth is here to stay, and with that there is a growing pile of trash alongside Woodmen Road and Highway 24 – two of the main transportation routes to Falcon.The trash also collects on the side roads and in the developments – the windy plains ensure that the sea of trash is widespread. Many are blaming the home builders.Larry Syslo, inspection supervisor for development services for El Paso County, agreed the accumulation of trash along the roads is a frustrating problem that requires cooperation from all the builders, who are required to contain their trash in covered bins or wire enclosures. However, as the wind picks up the trash and spreads it over the vast plains, Syslo said it’s impossible to determine who owns what trash, so there is no code enforcement.He said the builders should work together to keep the area clean. “It benefits the builders to keep the area looking nice and clean,” Syslo said.Who is responsible for clean up depends on where the trash lands and where it sticks. If it’s within the easements, 6 feet on either side of the roads, then the county is responsible. However, Highway 24 is a state road; therefore, any trash along 24 is the state’s responsibility. And garbage that lands on personal property outside of the easements is the property owners’ responsibility.”The county does its best to keep the trash picked up, but it’s impossible with the amount of building going on out there and the constant wind,” said a county employee, who wished to remain anonymous.There are adopt-a-road programs, but in the end trash is created by individuals. Call the county at to file a trash complaint.
