City Bets on Shame to Collect Debts

While it’s not the same as locking people in stocks or putting a scarlet “A” on their chests, Pen Argyl uses an old-fashioned method to get people to pay their garbage bills: public embarrassment.

Last month, as it had in 2003 and 2004, the borough published the names and addresses of 12 people with overdue bills in the Blue Valley Times, a weekly newspaper distributed in the Slate Belt.

But this time is somewhat different. Once all of the people named in the ad settle their debts, Pen Argyl officials won’t have to worry about making sure residents pay for trash service.

“It was more important when we had the yearly garbage fee,” said Robin Zmoda, Pen Argyl’s borough manager.

Now, garbage pickup is free in Pen Argyl, thanks to a financial agreement with the nearby Grand Central Sanitary Landfill that also gives the borough $11 million over eight years. Landfill owner Waste Management Inc. offered free pickup and cash because the landfill is close to the borough.

For this complete story, please visit City Bets on Shame to Collect Debts.