Keene Dumpsters

December 2008

Talking Trash:
An Assessment of Solid
Waste Disposal in
Keene, New Hampshire
ALEX KAMMLER
MIKE JAKUBOWSKI
LEAH MAGHINI
CHELSEA BROOKS

Keene State College
Department of Geography
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Christopher Cusack

ABSTRACT

The City of Keene, New Hampshire recently passed an ordinance requiring
dumpster screenings for all dumpsters, roll-off containers, or cans greater than 64
gallons on city properties. The screenings will consist of any fence, wall or plant covering
visible dumpsters from view of the home or business address. These screenings are
required to be at least six feet in height, with a concrete slab underneath. Cost for these
screenings may range between $200 to $3500 dollars, a price viewed with a variety of
opinions and concerns between renters and homeowners. It is anticipated that
dumpster screenings will better the quality of life in neighborhoods and generally
beautify the city.
The first step in this research project consisted of finding the absolute locations
of all dumpsters within the city. Concurrently, similar studies and other scholarly
references pertaining to the study were researched. Background information on the
city, and other literature reviews were explored. From here, a survey was created to be
conducted in a case study neighborhood. The survey discussed elements such as the
quality of life, impact of visible dumpsters, enrollment at Keene State College, and
opinions of the ordinance. Three hypotheses were developed for each zone: (1) the
higher the number of college students in a neighborhood zone, the higher the number
of dumpsters; (2) the perceived quality of life and satisfaction in the surveyed
neighborhood is higher in housing units that do not have a dumpster on the property
than those that do; and (3) the perceived quality of life and satisfaction in the surveyed
neighborhood is higher in housing units that are occupied by students than those who
are not. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to run a Pearson’s
Bivariate Correlation between the numbers of dumpsters compared to the amount of
college students living in the case study neighborhood. A pair of Two Sample Difference
of Means T-Tests were carried out comparing satisfaction with the quality of a specific
neighborhood and the actual rating for the quality of life, first with participants who
have or do not have a dumpster on their property, and then with participants who are
and are not currently enrolled at Keene State College. Geographic Information System
(GIS) technology was used to create maps demonstrating the relative location of Keene,
a sector map of the city, and dumpster locations within eight Keene neighborhoods.
Results show that there is a significant correlation between the number of
dumpsters and college students. After conducting the survey it is evident that the
presence of visual dumpsters has no effect on the city’s renters and homeowners in
terms of quality of life. Once the SPSS results were analyzed it became apparent that
there was no significant difference between either of the Two Sample Difference of
Means T-Tests run. Visually it is clear through the GIS maps that the prevalence of
dumpsters closer to the Keene State College campus has the highest density.

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This thesis could not have been written without Dr. Christopher Cusack who not
only served as our supervisor but also encouraged and challenged us throughout our
academic program in the Geography field. Thank you to William Schoefmann, of the City
of Keene’s Planning Department for providing our group with the zoning map of Keene,
as well as providing a copy of the ordinance. In addition, we would like to give special
thanks to the City of Keene Code Enforcement Officer, Medard Kopczynski for his insight
towards plans of action and impacts on the city’s community due to this ordinance. We
would also like to express the deepest appreciation to City Councilmember Jim Duffy for
providing us with essential background information regarding the genesis and creation
of the ordinance.
In addition, thank you to the Seminar II students for their help and support
throughout the semester. A final thank you to all group members in this project, for
spending countless hours and exhibiting excellent communication skills leading towards
the success of the final project.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES V

LIST OF TABLES VI

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1
The Ordinance and Area of Study 1
Problem Statement 3

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW 5
Background Literature 5
Relevant Studies 6
Critical Concepts 6

CHAPTER 3: BACKGROUND TO CASE STUDY REGION 10
Relative Location 11
Demographics 12

CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY 13
Hypotheses 13
Primary Data Collection 15
Interviews 15
Dumpster Locations 16
Secondary Data Collection 18
GIS Mapping 19

CHAPTER 5: CASE STUDY NEIGHBORHOOD 26
Case Study: 26
Maps 27
Survey 30
Statistical Analysis and Results 34

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION 42
Discussion 42
Summary of Findings 43

REFERENCES 45

APPENDICES
Appendix A – Dumpster Location Templates
Appendix B – Photographs
Appendix C – Survey Instrument
Appendix D – Additional Maps

IV

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE
1. Relative Location of Keene, New Hampshire 11

2. Population Pyramid of Keene 12

3. Methodology Process 14

4. Photograph, Dumpster on the Curb With No Screening 17

5. Photograph, Dumpster on the Curb/Side Yard With Screening 18

6. Eight Neighborhood Zones of Keene 20

7. Dumpster Locations in the Neighborhood Zones 22

8. Dumpster Screenings in the Neighborhood Zones 23

9. College Residences in the Neighborhood Zones 25

10. Dumpsters in Case Study Zone 2 27

11. Dumpster Screenings in Zone 2 28

12. Dumpsters by Land-Use in Zone 2 29

13. Pie Chart, Renters vs. Home-owners Surveyed 31

14. Column Graph, Survey Results 32

15. Graph, Aspects That Affect the Quality of Life 33

16. Correlation Scatterplot Graph 36

V

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE
1. Frequency of Dumpsters and College Residences 24

2. Correlation Data, Frequency of Dumpsters and College Residences 34

3. Correlation Results Output 35

4. Group Statistics For Dumpsters and Satisfaction Test 37

5. Test Results for Dumpsters and Satisfaction 37

6. Group Statistics For Dumpsters and Quality of Life Test 39

7. Group Statistics For Enrollment and Satisfaction Test 39

8. Test Results for Enrollment and Satisfaction 40

9. Group Statistics For Enrollment and Quality of Life Test 41

10. Test Results for Enrollment and Quality of Life 41

VI

Chapter 1: Introduction

The Ordinance and Area of Study –

In March 2008, the City of Keene, New Hampshire passed an ordinance requiring

dumpster screenings for all dumpsters, roll-off containers, or cans greater than 64

gallons on city properties. Reasons behind the creation of this ordinance revolve around

growing concerns about unkempt and unsafe housing; which then led to the realization

of the increasing number of visible dumpsters found on residential home properties

throughout the city (Kopczynski 2008). The Mayor received complaints from several

citizens, regarding multiple dumpsters in sight view within Keene. The solution was to

establish an ad hoc Committee compiled strictly of townspeople, nine in total. It was

this committee in which the formal ordinance was launched (Duffy 2008).

The ordinance states that all waste storage containers should be located toward

the rear of the building in an area to shield it from view from the public street or

equipped with a screen to shield the containers from view. The screenings can consist of

a wall, fence or plantings of the evergreen type. All screenings need to be at least six

feet high. If the screening is a type of plant it needs to be three feet high when planted

and when fully matured it needs to reach a height of at least six feet. All dumpsters are

to be located on a concrete pad sized at least two feet larger than the proposed

container. The citizens of the city have two years to come in compliance with all aspects

of the ordinance (City of Keene Ordinance O-2008-03).

During a regular meeting of the Keene City Council on March 20, 2008 a

memorandum was received from the Assistant City Manager/Health Director suggesting

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that the city council refer to the Ordinance O-2008-03 Relating to Bulk Containers and

Enclosures. The ordinance was read for the first time and was referred to the Planning,

Licensing and Development Committee. On April 3, 2008 the Planning, Licensing and

Development Committee read Ordinance O-2008-03 recommending its approval

(Greisman 2008). Councilor Jones moved for the adoption of the Ordinance. A vote was

taken with 15 Councilors present; all voting in favor. Ordinance O-2008-03 was declared

passed.

This ordinance has caused an excessive amount of responses ranging from

acceptance to frustration. Acceptance lies in the fact that the quality of life, as well as

the city’s aesthetics, will increase. Frustration, on the other hand, revolves around

issues such as increasing costs of living and convenience regarding fewer trips to the city

dump. Reasons for passing this ordinance involve issues such as health, social well-being

and the overall quality of life. Usage of dumpster screenings help to maintain overall

housing qualities, residing away from the past deteriorated streets downtown Keene

sustained. Dumpster enclosures also benefit the overall aesthetics of Keene, which in

turn contributes to the general well-being of the city’s economy. Although housing costs

for dumpster owners will increase with the implementation of this ordinance, the hope

for the City of Keene in terms of Vision 20/20 will hold a much greater chance of

reaching its goal. Through extensive research and statistical data acquired, this study

has examined all aspects, views and opinions towards the ordinance relating to bulk

containers and enclosures.

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Problem Statement –

Although the City of Keene is impacted by several different forms of visual blight,

the presence of dumpsters on both renter and homeowner occupied homes affects the

city’s quality of life. A significant populace within the city that is part of renter occupied

homes are Keene State College students. Numerous dumpsters and trash problems

within Keene’s residential areas are present on the locations of college student

residencies. It is no wonder why renters utilize dumpsters, as they are a great tool for

quick clean-up, as well as convenience of fewer trips to the city dump. However, as

contributors to visual blight, dumpsters deter the quality of life for both renters and

homeowners within college neighborhoods, and decrease the overall value of said

neighborhood.

This study addresses the issue of visual blight throughout the city of Keene,

specifically focusing upon the presence of dumpsters. The study coincides with a

recently passed ordinance in the City of Keene requiring dumpster screenings, as well as

a concrete pad placed underneath all visible dumpsters on city properties. These

dumpster screenings must cover all visible dumpsters from the actual street address on

the home. The anticipation behind passing this ordinance is that aesthetically, the

overall quality and image of Keene will increase. Resignation is a common view held by

homeowners in that this ordinance forces downtown Keene neighborhoods to beautify

their properties. Frustration, a response held by some renters, specifically college-aged

renters, formulate when the realization of costs for these screenings is discussed. Such

screenings may cost upwards of $3,000 to $5,000, a cost to which part-time renters,

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owners, and businesses do not wish to contribute. An example of this is John Croteau,

owner of Syd’s Carpet and Snooze Room, who actively opposed the ordinance.

Mr. Croteau stated that he received a $3,800 cost estimate from
Mondanock Fence to build a fence according to the City’s specifications.
He said the City requires that the fence be built on a concrete slab, which
can add another $1,000 to $2,000. He was not sure whether a slab would
still be required if situated in a parking lot…He also learned that Waste
Management is opposed to the fences because it takes one-third longer
to empty the trash and this would increase his cost. Mr. Croteau asked
for clarification on the ordinance (City of Keene 2006).

In order for the City of Keene to grow and thrive in a developed world, it must

have visual appeal. Appearance is an imperative property to have in order to increase in

wealth (Deiner 1995). People want high-quality items and in order for a city to thrive

and hold the expectation of being considered successful, it must be appealing to the

eyes of the consumer. “Society has considered hygiene imperative for a moral and

productive mind. In addition to its connection with ideas of health, order, purity,

stability, and beauty, hygiene also has been linked to privacy, class, gentility, and

economy” (Engler 2004, 42). Those who want to buy the houses, apartments and

condominiums in the city, are contributing to the wealth and prosperity of the city’s

future economy. In order for these prospect citizens to be interested in living within the

surroundings there needs to be some visual appeal (Deiner 1995).

The impact of a dumpster, whether it is curbside or visible in a property’s

backyard, stands as the basis for difficulties in terms of the image of the city. With the

passing of the ordinance regarding dumpster screenings, the intent is that the image of

the city increases while the level of visual blight decreases. In order for the blight to

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diminish and no longer be an issue, the dumpsters in all affected areas must be

screened or enclosed. Unfortunately, this leads to upheaval when thinking about this

topic. Enforcing this ordinance to its fullest potential may impact the cost of housing,

quality of life and overall satisfaction in both neighborhoods and the city.

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Chapter 2: Literature Review

Background Literature –

This is not the only ordinance of its kind. The City of East Chicago passed a similar

ordinance in the year 1914. The ordinance was titled East Chicago, Ind.: Manure.

Premises. Privies. Garbage. Trash. Ordinance 517. Trash receptacles are discussed in

terms of materials used, size and location in Sections Three and Four of the ordinance.

The owner or owners… with galvanized-iron fly-proof garbage cans, in
sufficient number, of sufficient size, and of approved construction, to
sanitarily care for and protect from flies… the number of such garbage
cans thus to be provided by such owner or owners shall not be less in
number then one to and for each separate resident family, or of sufficient
capacity for each apartment house. All garbage cans shall be placed and
kept so the garbage collector can have ready convenient access to the
same, and said garbage can and shall be used to contain garbage only
(East Chicago Ind., 2801).

This ordinance demonstrates that even in the early 1900’s trash disposal was

emerging as an issue that required municipal attention. Although Keene’s

situation is much different than that of Chicago, it is important to note that

waste management is something that people have been dealing with for many

decades.

Relevant Studies –

A pertinent thesis found in Studies in New England Geography was conducted by

a geography professor at Keene State College, A.L. Rydant, along with Steven Brehm.

The study is similar in that it discusses the dilemma of trash in New England towns and

disposal facilities in Southwestern New Hampshire. This study is useful because it

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contains a methodology in which data was similarly collected, organized and analyzed.

Also, the study utilizes a survey which was beneficial in considering important and

relevant pieces for the survey analysis. Although the projects are different; the layout,

general area of study, and topic of solid waste disposal are comparable (Brehm and

Rydant 1988).

A second relevant study focused upon GIS in New Hampshire. This study served

as an applicable guide throughout this project. This GIS study also has a similar

methodology in that there is a heavy focus on background to the case study region, as

well as survey analysis through GIS technology (Cusack and Witkowski 2000).

Yet another study by Tranel and Handlin, Jr. (2006), examines a community

revitalization effort in urban neighborhoods in St. Louis, Missouri. The study utilizes GIS

to map the effect that community gardens have on the image and perception of the city.

The use of GIS and urban revitalization methods are aspects to consider in this study.

Critical Concepts –

According to Rathje and Murphy, “garbage has been a crisis since humans have

been introduced to a sedentary lifestyle” (Rathje and Murphy 1992, 37). This dilemma

has increased exponentially over time and has created a vast social predicament.

Properly dealing with waste is nothing new in the history of the United States

and is something that has gone through many transitions. According to Engler (2004),

the eight distinct periods of residential waste management may be defined as follows:

Accommodating the outdoors (1770’s-1800’s)

Cleaning the front (1800’s-1840’s)

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Containing waste (1840’s-1870’s)

Diverting waste (1870’s-1890’s)

Clean is beautiful (1890’s-1910’s)

Sanitizing spaces (1910’s-1940’s)

Out of sight, out of mind (1940’s-1970’s)

History and waste recycled (1970’s-1990’s)

The smart house and yard (1990’s-present)

These periods coincide with the social and political aspects during the time and

represent America’s people as a whole. “Organized municipal or privately contracted

garbage collection and street-cleaning services in large cities, generally inefficient prior

to 1900, were gradually perfected and systematized during the first two decades of the

twentieth century” (Engler 2004, 61). Although the current period may be the smart

house and yard, many municipalities continue to deal with waste management issues.

Environmental justice is a very strong, underlying concept to this project that

associates people’s living conditions to aspects controlled by a larger force. One

definition of environmental justice is “the notion that everybody has the right to a clean,

safe, healthy environment and that no community should become the dumping grounds

for other people’s waste” (Joseph 2005, 2). More often than not, the communities that

are victims of environmental injustices are those of lower income. These people go

through countless number of social problems such as crowding, crime, poverty, and

infrastructure deterioration (Bullard 2005, 60). Among the environmental stressors in

these neighborhoods are those associated with waste disposal. “A number of other

studies have been undertaken during the past 30 years that show that minority

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communities and/or the poor suffer disproportionately from garbage dumps” (Borzo

1993, 4). These issues have been analyzed and explored in many ways “using various

geographic units of analysis, types of statistical tests, risk indicators and census tracts”

(Harner, et al 2002, 318) All have resulted in the same conclusion: not everyone’s quality

of life is equal. It is apparent that the higher the economic status, the better the overall

living environment. “The simple acknowledgement of others’ living conditions and

cultures within our own society is an excellent first step” (Russo 2003, 2).

“From the end of the nineteenth century onward, gentility, convenience, health

and aesthetics converged to form a nexus of values at the heart of Americans’ attitudes

toward waste” (Engler 2004, 58). Americans began to realize that cleanliness was a huge

factor in the visual aesthetics of a home, recognizing that “The yard, like the house,

played an important role in the newly formulated aesthetics of cleanliness. (Engler 2004,

60). Major shifts were visible in both front and back yards; larger and more open space,

increased tidiness, and fewer boundaries and margins. “The clean appearance of people

and their private domain – the visible façade- became a decisive criterion marking high

status and gentility” (Engler 2004, 49).

In today’s world it is becoming harder and harder to extract importance from a

city. The value of a city is in the eye of the beholder. Someone might extract some sort

of importance from the city and another person may gain something completely

different yet still totally valuable (Weber 2002, 525). The well being of the environment

serves a huge purpose in the visual image of the city. Creating environmental

degradation not only affects the image of the city and its landscape but also the people

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within that society. It leads to other important problems that affect the image of the city

like social disorder, vandalism, crime, drug-abuse and littering (Semeza 2003).

The image of the city is one of the most crucial and important components to a

city’s survival (Jutla 2000). The City of Keene wants to be considered a prosperous and

aesthetically pleasing place in which to live. Although there are a few problems that

need to be addressed, among the most important is visual blight throughout the city.

Visual blight is defined as any reasonable or unlawful condition or use of real property,

premises or of building exteriors which by reason of its appearance as viewed at ground

level from the public right-of-way or from neighboring premises. Visual blight is

detrimental to the property of others, offensive to the senses, or reduces the aesthetic

appearance of the neighborhood (Dentler and Rossi 1961). Visual blight may itself stem

from the mixture of dismantling communities and the ambitious goals of planners (Knox

and Pinch 2006, 277). Visual blight includes neighborhood issues such as, active states of

renovation or restoration, decrepit fencing structures, abandoned or dismantled

properties, parking issues, such as vehicles parked on any surface other than a driveway,

and most notably, trash.

Efforts to combat visual blight are present in the City of Keene. The proof lies in

the approved City Ordinance O-2008-03. The passing of this ordinance demonstrates the

City’s commitment to live and work in a sanitary, visually pleasing area. The citizens of

Keene are exercising public power enforcing aesthetics as well as safety, health, morale,

and welfare in their community. The betterment of the city is really becoming a focus

for the community members. Committees throughout the city such as Heading for

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Home, Workforce Housing Coalition and Vision 2020 hold the proof to this statement.

They are committees focused on achieving a greater quality of life for the citizens of the

city, through improved housing and providing better health care. The citizens of Keene

are doing everything they can to make their community a clean and safe environment in

which to live.

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Chapter 3: Background to Case Study Region

With an unusual density of young people, highly educated workforces,
comparatively cosmopolitan populations, dominant institutions of higher
education, and characteristic landscapes such as the campus, college
towns represent a unique type of urban setting (Gumprecht 2003).

Keene has college-oriented shopping districts and an unusually high density of

young people making it a stereotypical college town. Figure 1 depicts the relative

location of Keene, New Hampshire. This study is based on the trash problem that is

lingering through the City of Keene. Dumpsters and the debris that is attributed to them

are causing deterioration to the city’s image. In order to focus into the ongoing problem

and have interest in Keene’s beautification, it is important to know more about the city

itself. Keene is situated in the southwest corner of the state of New Hampshire. It has a

relatively densely settled core area, with less densely settled housing in the fringe areas

of the city.

The fact that Keene is considered a college town plays a significant role on

population distribution, as well as the number of renter occupied and owner occupied

homes. According to the 2000 Census Demographic Profile, the town’s total population

was at 22,563, with 46.9% being males, and 53.1% being females. Figure 2 demonstrates

Keene’s population in terms of age cohorts in four years of length (Census Bureau 2000).

As evidenced by the significant 15-19 and 20-24 year old age cohorts, the City of Keene

has a significant college-age population.

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Figure 1 Relative location of Keene in New Hampshire

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90 years and over
80 to 84 years
70 to 74 years
60 to 64 years
50 to 54 years
40 to 44 years
30 to 34 years
20 to 24 years
10 to 14 years
Under 5 years
15 10 5 0 5 10 15
% Male % Female

Figure 2 Population pyramid of Keene

It may be noted that the very highest age rank within the city lies in citizens aged

20 to 24 years. The presence of Keene State College is a principal contributor to this

statistic. In terms of males versus females, the city is fairly evenly distributed with an

exception among the older community, where the life expectancy of a female in those

age cohorts is longer. A population pyramid of this projection exemplifies the high rate

of college students in Keene.

The 2000 United States Census generated the fact that of Keene’s 8,955

occupied housing units, 5,120 were owner-occupied and 3,835 of these units were

renter-occupied housing units. This number is likely dependent upon Keene State

College, and the fact that numerous students live off-campus and rent local apartments.

Again, when looking at the population pyramid for the City of Keene, citizens between

the ages of 30-34 through 60-64 years old are most likely to fulfill owner-occupied

housing.

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Chapter 4: Methodology

The methodology for this research project is laid out in Figure 3. These steps are

common in geographic research and follow the scientific method, which is: the

formulation of the research problem, definition of hypotheses, determination of the

type of data to be collected, collection of data, and analyzing and processing the

collected data (Haring 1971). Using results gathered from this methodology it will be

possible to reject or fail to reject these three hypotheses:

1.) For each zone, the higher the number of college students in a neighborhood, the

higher the number of dumpsters.

2.) The perceived quality of life and satisfaction in the surveyed neighborhood is higher

in housing units that do not have a dumpster on the property than those that do.

3.) The perceived quality of life and satisfaction in the surveyed neighborhood is higher

in housing units that are occupied by students than those who are not.

Primary Data Collection –

The first step in the primary data collection process was to research the genesis

and enforcement of the ordinance through interviews with key members in Keene City

Hall including:

Will Schoefmann: City of Keene Planning Department

Medard Kopczynski: City of Keene Code Enforcement Officer

Jim Duffy: City of Keene Councilmember

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Research Process

Problem
Hypotheses
Identification

Data Collection

Formulate
Descriptive Data

Maps SPSS Survey

Results & Analysis

Conclusion

Figure 3 Research Process Source: Authors

16

These individuals provided ample background information about the ordinance

and reinforced the critical aspects that it entails. Mr. Schoefmann provided a sector map

of the city, complete with eight different zones. This map was used to collect data

involving dumpster location and the city’s demographics. During the interview with Mr.

Kopczynski the genesis of the ordinance was discussed. The purpose behind the creation

of this ordinance, according to Medard Kopczynski, was to stabilize the aesthetics of the

city, and improve its environmental health. Negative expectations include, increase in

property cost, resentment from business owners. Long term hopes from the

implementation of this ordinance anticipate that property owners will participate in the

upkeep of their land, rather than city responsibility. Also discussed was the

enforcement of the ordinance, its purpose, and possible obstacles he as the City’s Code

Enforcement Officer would have to overcome. Mr. Kopczynski explained that the

necessity for dumpster screenings has been a planning requirement for a sufficient time

span. The present ordinance is being applied both retroactively upon complaint and for

any new development. Kopczynski stated that although the City does not actively seek

enforcement it could, if that is the wish of the City Council.

Interviewing Councilman Duffy also proved very beneficial. His understanding of

the ordinance and further explanation of the ordinance’s genesis were irreplaceable.

Mr. Duffy also noted that “the ordinance isn’t perfect but the more we pay attention

and address the issue, the healthier our community will be” (Duffy 2008). Duffy believes

that although the ordinance is not seen as an ideal solution to the problem, it will spark

citizen’s attention upon these environmental issues. This ordinance will help people

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become more aware of the problem. Duffy then explained the formation and purpose of

the ad hoc Committee. This committee consisting of both business and homeowners

was instrumental to the creation of the ordinance.

Dumpster Locations –

The collection of the absolute locations of dumpsters proved to be a substantial

part of the project because, unfortunately, the addresses were not provided by the local

waste management companies. With the addresses, it is possible to add the data into

ArcMap to create a map of the distribution of the dumpsters in greater Keene, and more

specifically the neighborhoods. The steps that were taken to document the locations of

dumpsters have some inherent flaws and limitations but represent the most accurate

field research possible. Using a map of the eight main zones of Keene, provided by Will

Schoefmann of the City of Keene Planning Department, it was possible to obtain the

addresses by walking/driving through each neighborhood. For each dumpster, several

columns on a template were filled out including: address, location of dumpster in the

yard, screening, dumpster size, and description of location (template located in

Appendix A).

Figure 4 is an example of a dumpster with no screening on the curb. This would

not be in compliance with the ordinance. Figure 5 is an example of a dumpster with

screening that would be in compliance with the ordinance. This dumpster has a much

better visual appeal than the one in Figure 4 and helps to improve the overall

appearance of the neighborhood. If every dumpster in an area had screenings, clearly

the problem of visual blight would be reduced.

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Figure 4 Dumpster on the curbside with no screening

Figure 5 Dumpster on the curbside/side yard with screening

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Secondary Data Collection –

The secondary data collection process is more varied and will include

information from many different types of sources. Secondary data collection is

important for this project because it serves as the medium for obtaining information

regarding background literature, critical geographic concepts, and similar studies. A

significant part of the secondary data collection is obtaining scholarly resources related

to the topic. It became evident very early on that there is not much literature

specifically regarding dumpster locations and the impact on communities so it became

necessary to look into other avenues. The research that much of this project will be

based upon relates to similar geographic concepts such as: solid waste disposal, urban

beautification, community health and sanitation, and visual blight. This type of

information will help to support the formulation of this project and add to the overall

quality.

GIS Mapping –

In order to successfully manage the data being collected, the city of Keene

needed to be divided into eight zones or neighborhoods. With these divisions already

given by a city planner, some limitations began to appear. The divisions that were given

had some parts of Keene left out of all eight zones. These residential areas were too far

from the heart of downtown and therefore considered outliers and were not included in

the data collection. After the collection, it was necessary to input the data into their

respective zones, but in order to do that the eight zones first needed to be depicted.

Obtaining a digital map of Keene and then manually and individually cutting out the

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eight zones through digitizing was the only way to get all eight zones together. Then,

applying a definition query to the map allowed all other locations outside of the eight

zones to disappear.

Figure 6 depicts the eight zones being studied in the Keene area. The main map

display shows each numbered zone and its location as well as the boundary to each

zone. Along with the eight zones there are also individual property parcels that show

property locations on each street within each zone throughout Keene. Figure 6 also has

a Keene inset map to show orientation. This Keene inset map also allows for extraction

of important information. The inset map has the eight zones highlighted, showing that

the eight zones being studied are not of the entire City of Keene but only the most

populated downtown areas. Figure 6 may be used as reference to show the zone

locations inside of the City of Keene.

After dividing Keene into eight zones, all dumpsters had to be assessed in each

individual zone. With this information it is possible to compare and contrast between

dumpsters in each zone. Figure 7 shows the boundary for the eight zones in downtown

Keene. The legend clarifies that all parcels highlighted in red are parcels with dumpsters

on their property. Creating this map allows further interpretation between the size of

the zone and the dumpsters present in each zone. Zone 6 is fairly large in area yet there

are not many dumpsters present in this zone. On the other hand, zones 2 and 3 have

many more dumpsters present.

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Figure 6 Eight neighborhood zones of Keene

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Figure 7 Dumpster locations in the eight neighborhood zones

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After completing the dumpster location assessment and mapping the dumpster

locations it was also important to include whether the dumpsters needed to be

screened based on the ordinance. According to the ordinance, any dumpster that is

over 64 gallons in size and is within eyesight of the address number on the front of the

house needs screening. While collecting data for dumpster locations it was essential

that other information about the need for screening was provided as well. Figure 8

again displays the eight zones with all property parcels that possess a dumpster. With

several variations present, it was necessary to depict the dumpster locations in a

multivariate fashion. The legend in Figure 8 explains that all red parcels highlighted are

dumpsters in need of screening; the yellow highlighted parcels are for dumpsters on

properties that are already screened off and lastly, the blue parcels are dumpsters that

are present on the property but are not in need of screening based on the ordinance.

Figure 9 is another display of the eight zones of Keene that were observed.

Figure 9 shows all property parcels in which a college student currently resides. With

this map it is possible to compare with the map of property parcels with dumpsters.

After overlaying the two maps, inferences can be made that the zones that have more

college residences will also be a zone with numerous dumpsters present. This map is

also imperative when it comes to further statistical tests in the future for correlations

between college kids in each zone and dumpsters present in each zone.

24

Figure 8 Dumpster screenings in the eight neighborhood zones

25

Figure 9 College residences in the eight neighborhood zones

26

While the Keene State College campus is located just south of Zone 2, the

distribution of dumpsters throughout the zones is not related as closely to the distance

from the campus, rather it is the presence of the college students in the zones. It is

evident in looking at these maps that more students live closer to the college campus in

Zones 1, 2, and 3 which are known as the prominent “student neighborhoods”.

Conversely, fewer students live further away in Zones 7 and 8. Table 1 below shows the

distribution of dumpsters and college throughout the eight zones.

Table 1 Dumpsters and College Students in the Eight Neighborhoods

Zone Dumpster Locations College Student Residences
1 47 78
2 37 32
3 53 53
4 47 31
5 14 10
6 18 14
7 27 11
8 3 2

27

Chapter 5: Case Study Neighborhood

Zone 2 is used as a sample study area because this area is widely recognized as a

student-dominated neighborhood with many unscreened and conspicuously placed

dumpsters. Figure 10 shows the digitized Zone 2 with many different property parcels

selected. Those property parcels that are selected are the properties in that zone that

have dumpsters. The map also includes an inset which is the map of Keene zoomed into

the specific focus area. This inset map has Zone 2 selected to show the orientation of

the neighborhood to the rest of the City of Keene. This inset map shows the reader the

relative location that was traveled during the survey study and can also give inference,

due to the amount of screenings needed, how dilapidated the environment is in that

neighborhood.

Along with assessing the dumpster locations it was also imperative for a survey

to be conducted. Zone 2 is closest to the Keene State College campus and is known as a

“college” neighborhood. As such, it was selected for use as a case study zone. After

administering the survey to 30 people who reside in Zone 2 it was essential to map out

the locations of the dumpsters in that survey zone. In Figure 10, the red highlighted

parcels are the properties in which a dumpster is present. This map is also useful for

comparing college students in Zone 2 to the amount of dumpsters present in the zone.

Zone 2 has 37 parcels which have dumpsters on the property which is significant seeing

as though there are 180 parcels in total for the zone. This means that 20%, or 1 out of 5

property parcels contain dumpsters.

28

Figure 10 Dumpsters in case study neighborhood, Zone 2

Figure 11 reveals the properties with dumpsters that need screenings and

properties with dumpsters that already have screenings. In this case Zone 2 did not have

any dumpsters that under the ordinance rules did not need to be screened. Out of the

37 parcels containing dumpsters, 32 of them require screening. This results in over 86%

of the properties containing dumpsters to be in violation of the ordinance rules. This

29

also gives inference to the reader that if a dumpster is present in Zone 2 it needs to be

screened.

Figure 11 Dumpster screenings in Zone 2

Along with displaying the properties that possess dumpsters in Zone 2, it is also

significant to portray the description behind each property parcel that has a dumpster.

Residential plots are not the only land areas that have a dumpster present. Commercial

areas are just as important for screening, and in fact, commercial areas are most

30

notorious for having land masses with no use (Smith 2002). Figure 12 identifies those

parcels with dumpsters as either residential or commercial. This map displays the same

180 parcels in Zone 2. In this case, 18 out of the 37 parcels with dumpsters are

designated as commercial properties while 19 are residential. These findings reveal that

college housing is not the only culprit for exposed dumpsters in Zone 2.

Figure 12 Dumpsters by land use in Zone 2

31

Survey –

“Surveys are information collection methods used to describe, compare or

explain individual and societal knowledge , feelings, values, preferences and behavior”

(Fink 2006, 1). The survey aspect of this project is based upon a focus neighborhood and

will provide qualitative data regarding its unique composition. The chosen area is Zone 2

which contains part of the Keene State campus and the neighborhood between Main

Street, Gilbo Avenue and Island Street. The purpose of selecting this area relates to its

proximity to campus, the prevalence of dumpsters, and its reputation as a “college

neighborhood”. By surveying this area, it will be possible to analyze: the demographic

makeup of the neighborhood, the awareness of the ordinance and some potential

impacts, and the perceived quality of life.

The survey was distributed door-to-door in the neighborhood, with the hopes of

achieving as many results as possible. The included survey elements are:

Age

Renter/owner occupied

Keene State College attendance

Awareness of the dumpster ordinance

Perception of the visual and sanitary quality of the neighborhood.

How would renter feel if their rent changed as a result of an ordinance. (Appendix C)

This survey includes the Likert Scale which provides quantitative data for the hypotheses

regarding the quality of life in Zone 2.

The survey implemented in Zone 2 of Keene maintained several questions using

the Likert Scale. The scale is used with a one to five scale, one being strongly disagree

32

and five being strongly agree. This is a well-known scale which allows respondents to

answer their thoughts and attitudes to a proposed question through a rating to which

their level of agreement exists. The Likert Scale is easy to understand and quick, which

was important in conducting door to door surveys. The Likert Scale is often seen a,

“meaningful scale that makes sense in terms of the surveys specific objectives” (Fink

2003, 54).

The survey was distributed within Zone 2 of Keene, New Hampshire. Figure 13

below shows the population of the 30 surveyed in terms of home-ownership and

relation to Keene State College. It is evident that Zone 2 is primarily composed of

renters. This is likely to occur due to the close distance to the college campus, and

several students renting homes for the academic year.

Renters vs. Homeowners
Surveyed

17%

83% Renters
Homeowners

Figure 13 Survey sample population in terms of renters and homeowners

The survey also asked respondents whether or not they were enrolled at Keene

State College. This question was used to verify how many respondents were enrolled,

and likely to allow dumpsters on their property for both convenience and cost of

cheaper housing.

33

35

30

25

20
No
15
Yes

10

5

0
Enrolled vs. Not Enrolled Dumpster vs. No Dumpster

Figure 14 Survey respondents enrolled at Keene State and respondents with dumpsters

Figure 14 above reveals that 22 of the 30 respondents are enrolled at Keene

State College. Of the 30 survey sample respondents, twenty had dumpsters located on

their property, while ten did not. Although not all properties in this survey had

dumpsters on their property, it was observed that several used 64 gallon garbage bins.

These waste containers are also being considered for enclosures by the city, due to their

effect on the city’s aesthetics.

Respondents were also asked to assess factors that may affect the quality of life

in their neighborhood (Figure 15). Unfortunately, dumpsters were not the highest

aspect that affected quality of life but the trash, litter and debris that come from the

dumpsters do have a significant impact.

34

Aspects that Affect the Quality of Life in
Zone 2
16
14
12
10
8
6
4 Rank
2
0

Figure 15 Aspects that affect citizens’ quality of life in Zone 2

Noise ranked as the highest negative impact within the neighborhood. Not

surprisingly, due to observation while carrying out the survey, trash and litter were

recognized as the second most negative impact in Zone 2. Ironically, the survey revolved

around the presence of dumpsters and their negative impact on the city’s aesthetics; yet

visible dumpsters ranked as the least important in terms of the impact on citizen’s

quality of life. One respondent stated, “Visible dumpsters are the least of the concerns

on Wilson Street.” The survey became a necessity in understanding Zone 2, an area

highly affected by dumpsters; as well as the views of the neighborhoods residents.

35

Statistical Analysis and Results –

The next step in the methodology is to incorporate statistical analysis using the

SPSS program. This data will reveal if the hypotheses of this study are rejected or failed

to be rejected. According to McGrew and Monroe (2004, 4) “statistical techniques and

procedures are applied in all fields of academic research. In fact, wherever data are

collected and summarized or wherever any numerical information is analyzed or

researched, statistics are needed for sound interpretation and analysis.” The first and

most important test of this study is a Pearson’s bivariate correlation. “The correlation is

one of the most common and most useful statistics. A correlation is a single number

that describes the degree of relationship between two variables” (Trochim 2006). In this

case the variables are the frequencies of dumpsters and college student residences in

the eight zones. A positive correlation that demonstrates a higher number of college

students coincides with a higher number of dumpsters, which would result in the failure

to reject the first hypothesis of this study. Table 2, which is a restatement of Table 1,

shows the data used to run this correlation.

Table 2 Correlation data, frequency of dumpsters and college residences by zone

Zone Dumpster Locations College Student Residences
1 47 78
2 37 32
3 53 53
4 47 31
5 14 10
6 18 14
7 27 11
8 3 2

36

Table 3 and Figure 16 show the output of the correlation test.

Table 3 Correlation results
Correlations
Dumpsters College Students
Dumpsters Pearson
1.000 .832*
Correlation
Sig. (2-tailed) .010
N 8.000 8
College_Students Pearson
.832* 1.000
Correlation
Sig. (2-tailed) .010
N 8 8.000
*. Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed).

The output results demonstrate that a strong positive correlation exists with a

value of .832; it is substantial and significant at the .05 level with a value of .010. This

means that there is a correlation between the variables and only 1% chance of being

wrong. An example of this correlation can be seen in Zone 1 which has a total of 78

property parcels that attribute to college housing, and 47 property parcels that contain

a dumpster. With the amount of dumpsters present in the zone it is easy to give

inference that there will be a strong correlation between college housing and dumpsters

being present on that property. Zones 2 and 3 demonstrate similar trends in the

distribution between dumpsters and college residences. Figure 16 below shows a

scatterplot graph of these results for the eight zones, and can be used as a visual

representation of this relationship between the prevalence of dumpsters and college

residences

37

Figure 16 Correlation scatterplot graph of Dumpsters and College Students

Figure 16 depicts the strong, positive correlation and helps explain why it is

statistically significant. The results are significant and represent an extremely strong and

substantially positive correlation. In terms of the variables and the hypothesis, there is a

relationship between the number of dumpsters and college students in the eight zones

of Keene.

The next step is to run a series of two sample difference of means tests between

data obtained from the surveyed neighborhood. These tests will compare the dwellers’

satisfaction with the quality of their neighborhood and the actual rating for the quality

of life. There are two separate datasets which will compare the satisfaction and quality

of life, resulting in a total of four tests. The first dataset includes participants who have/
38

do not have a dumpster on their property and the second has participants who are/ are

not currently enrolled at Keene State College. Tables 4 and 5 below show the output

results comparing dumpsters and neighborhood satisfaction. These tables illustrate that

the 30 survey respondents replied with a yes or no answer for presence of a dumpster

on their property. Twenty of the respondents had dumpsters while the remaining ten

lacked dumpsters.

Table 4 Group statistics for the two-sample difference of means regarding dumpsters
and neighborhood satisfaction
Group Statistics

Std. Error
Yes/ no N Mean Std. Deviation Mean
Satisfaction 1 20 3.400 .9947 .2224

2 10 2.900 1.1972 .3786

Table 5 Test results for dumpsters and satisfaction
Independent Samples Test
Levene's Test for Equality
of Variances t-test for Equality of Means
Sig. (2-
F Sig. t df tailed)
Satisfactio Equal variances
2.197 .149 1.213 28 .235
n assumed
Equal variances
1.139 15.415 .272
not assumed

Tables 4 and 5 portray the output statistics for the overall view of neighborhood

satisfaction. The tables show that 20 of the 30 people surveyed had a dumpster present

39

on their property. Of those 20 people, the average rating for the satisfaction of their

neighborhood was given 3.4 out of 5. The remaining ten respondents did not have a

dumpster present on their property and their satisfaction was given 2.9 out of 5. After

running the two sample test the significance level is a .235 meaning there is a 23.5%

chance of being wrong if it was stated that properties without dumpsters get more

neighborhood satisfaction than properties with dumpsters. With these results it is

possible to say that there is no significance for neighborhood satisfaction between

properties that have dumpsters than those that possess dumpsters.

Table 6 provides descriptive statistics about the quality of life in the surveyed

neighborhood. Again the 30 respondents to the survey were used to see if the people

on the properties that do not possess dumpsters perceive their quality of life to be

higher than those that have dumpsters on their property. After running the descriptive

statistics for quality of life, the mean for both properties with dumpsters and properties

without dumpsters are 2.5 out 5. With both values being equal it was not significant and

therefore unnecessary to run any further tests because the chance of being wrong

would be 100%.

Table 6 Group statistics for the two-sample difference of means regarding dumpsters
and rating of the quality of life
Group Statistics

Yes/ no N Mean Std. Deviation Std. Error Mean
Quality 1 20 2.5000 .94591 .21151

2 10 2.5000 .84984 .26874

40

Table 7 and 8 below show the results to the satisfaction of the neighborhood for

the same 30 respondents, but this time asking whether or not that respondent is

enrolled at Keene State College. Table 7 shows that of the 30 respondents 22 of them

are enrolled at Keene State, while the remaining 8 are not associated with the college.

Those 22 then rated their neighborhood satisfaction a 3.36 out of 5. The remaining 8

respondents that were not enrolled at Keene State College measured their satisfaction

level at 2.88 out of 5. With this information, significance levels can be reached between

students and non students and their rating of neighborhood satisfaction.

Table 7 Group statistics for the two-sample difference of means regarding enrollment
and neighborhood satisfaction
Group Statistics

Enrollm
ent N Mean Std. Deviation Std. Error Mean
Satisfaction 1 22 3.36 1.002 .214

2 8 2.88 1.246 .441

Table 8 is an output of the results for neighborhood satisfaction. The test output

shows the results for the satisfaction levels of both students and non students in the

surveyed zone. The results show that with a .277 significance there is a substantial but

not statistically significant difference between perceived satisfaction for students and

non students in the surveyed zone 2.

41

Table 8 Test results for enrollment and satisfaction
Independent Samples Test
Levene's Test for
Equality of Variances t-test for Equality of Means
Sig. (2-
F Sig. t df tailed)
Satisfaction Equal variances
2.070 .161 1.108 28 .277
assumed
Equal variances
.998 10.485 .341
not assumed

Table 9 shows the descriptive statistics for the same 30 respondents, this time

focusing on quality of life as opposed to neighborhood satisfaction. The table explains

that the same 22 students that answered the survey averaged a 2.55 out of 5 rating for

quality of life. The 8 non enrolled respondents averaged 2.38 out of 5. The respondent’s

averages are so close in number that inferences can already be made that there will be

no significant difference between enrolled students and non enrolled students and how

they perceive their quality of life.

Table 9 Group statistics for the two-sample difference of means regarding
enrollment and quality of life.
Group Statistics

Enrollm
ent N Mean Std. Deviation Std. Error Mean
Quality 1 22 2.55 .963 .205
2 8 2.38 .744 .263

42

Chapter 6: Conclusion

Discussion –

The intent of the bulk container and enclosure ordinance is to maintain the City

of Keene. Assessing all dumpsters in the greater Keene area provides useful information

about those parts of Keene most affected when it comes to the impact of dumpsters on

urban blight. The study reveals the dispersion of the dumpsters throughout the city and

the effects that bulk containers have on the environment and surrounding areas. In

order to enforce this ordinance the word has to be spread that enclosures on their

dumpsters need to be present. Maps created in this study will facilitate enforcement of

the ordinance by the Code Enforcement Department.

Since the addresses of dumpsters were not provided by the waste management

companies, it was necessary to complete field research in order to obtain the locations.

Some inherent limitations of this are: the need to respect property boundaries resulting

in an incomplete collection of dumpster locations (for example, the potential for missing

dumpsters and the inability to get close to the dumpster to check its size and quality),

and the need to exclude several sections outside of the greater Keene area.

Other problems occurred when collecting information for college students off

campus. Not all students allow their address information to be distributed while others

may have their home addresses listed only. Also there were some discrepancies

between the student address list and the property parcel map. In total, the assessment

gathered 290 known dumpsters in the greater Keene Area, but with the parcel map only

207 of those properties were found. Additionally, dumpsters could be present outside of

43

the eight observed zones and they would not be incorporated into the results of the

study. Lastly, the survey size of 30 people was derived from only a single case study

zone. A larger sample size would have been more adequate in supplying accurate

results.

Conclusion –

Dumpsters negatively affect the image of the city and lead to issues in visual

blight, sanitation, and overall aesthetics. These aspects can be reversed with practices of

urban renewal and revitalization, but may require municipal action such as stabilizing

blighted neighborhoods and encourage residents to improve their properties.

Final results through both GIS mapping and SPSS tests reveal a strong correlation

between college students and the number of dumpsters, supporting the first

hypothesis. As for the second hypothesis, dumpsters did not significantly affect the

perceived quality of life for citizens residing in neighborhood two. After running a Two

Sample Difference of Means T-Test, the third hypothesis stating that the perceived

quality of life and satisfaction in the surveyed neighborhood is higher in housing units

that are occupied by students than those who are not was rejected.

Through the analysis of primary and secondary data collection, it is evident that

the ordinance pertaining to bulk containers and enclosures in Keene, New Hampshire

requires clarification. The maps of this study display the various situations of dumpsters

and reveal that many properties are in violation of the ordinance. Simple adjustments

such as the movement of the dumpster in the yard may be sufficient for some, but to

fully comply, many will need further alterations.

44

Visual blight is a significant detriment to any city. The City of Keene is proactively

addressing this critical issue by enacting and enforcing an ordinance related to the

screening of dumpsters. By improving the city’s visual image, the socio-economics may

also improve. Though, only time will tell as to the success of the ordinance, it is an

important step towards improving the quality of life in Keene neighborhoods.

45

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48

Appendix A – Dumpster
Location Templates
Location of Dumpster
Address Dumpsters Screening Size Description
(Where is Dumpster?) (Curbside, Backyard) (Yes, No, Partial) (Large, Small) (Residential/Commercial)

Zone 1
35 Dartmouth Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
249 Marlboro Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Small Residential
29 Martin Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
31 Martin Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
305 Marlboro Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
819 Marlboro Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
259 Marlboro Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
9 Jennison Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
11 Jennison Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
17 Gardner Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
30 Jennison Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Medium Residential
4 Willow Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
28 Willow Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Small Residential
70 Grove Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
51 Grove Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
52 Willow Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Small Residential
23 South Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
30 South Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
66 Adams Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
91 Marlboro Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Small Commercial
74 Kelleher Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
86 Baker Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
90 Baker Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
259 Marlboro Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
181 Marlboro Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Small Commercial
199 Marlboro Street Side Needs Screening Medium Commercial

49

Zone 2
27 Winchester Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
195 Winchester Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
60 Ralston Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
125 Davis Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
149 Emerald Street Backyard Has Screening Large Commercial
9 Wilcox Terrace Front Needs Screening Small Residential
87 Davis Streetq Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
7 Blake Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
76 Davis Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
15 Blake Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
79 Wilson Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
57 Winchester Street Backyard Has Screening Large Residential
47 Davis Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
149 Main Street Backyard Has Screening Large Commercial
29 Davis Street Backyard Has Screening Small Residential
38 Emerald Street Backyard Has Screening Large Commercial
43 Emerald Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
115 Main Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
91 Winchester Street Front Needs Screening Small Commercial
38 Foundry Street Side Needs Screening Large Commercial
204 Winchester Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
21 Winchester Court Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
28 Winchester Court Front Needs Screening Small Residential
42 Winchester Court Front Needs Screening Small Residential

50

127 Winchester Street Side Has Screening Small Commercial
43 Saint James Street Side Has Screening Large Commercial
19 Gilbo Avenue Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
55 Main Street Backyard Needs Screening Large Commercial
126 Main Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
189 West Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
162 West Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
85 Emerald Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
160 Emerald Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial

Zone 3
70 Beaver St. Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
1 Damon Ct. Across the street Needs Screening Small Residential
98 Beaver St. Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
215 Roxbury St. Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
178 Roxbury St. Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Medium Residential
164 Roxbury St. Side Needs Screening Small Residential
140 Roxbury St. Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Medium Residential
139 Roxbury St. Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
116 Roxbury St. Side Doesn't Need Screening Medium Residential
1 Roxbury Ct. Side Needs Screening Large Residential
106 Roxbury St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Commercial
65 Roxbury St. 2 in Back Needs Screening Small Commercial
17 Washington St. 2 in Back Doesn't Need Screening Medium Public School
25 Roxbury St. Side Doesn't Need Screening Medium Public Recreation
47 Spring St. Side Has Screening Small Residential
30 Spring St. Side Needs Screening Small Residential
78 Roxbury St. 2 in Back Needs Screening Medium Commercial
15 Harrison St. 2 in Back N/A Large Industrial
166 Roxbury St. Side Needs Screening Small Residential
205 Roxbury St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
201 Roxbury St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
218 Water St. Side Needs Screening Small Residential
Truck Depot 3 in Backyard N/A Large Industrial
98 South Lincoln St. 2 in Back Needs Screening Medium Residential
88 South Lincoln St. Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Medium Residential
150 South Lincoln St. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
103 South Lincoln St. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
2 Damon Ct. Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
45 Damon Ct. Front Needs Screening Medium Residential
109 Beaver St. Backyard Needs Screening Large Residential

51

15 Douglass St. Side Needs Screening Large Residential
45 Beech St. Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
70 Dover St. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
51 Dover St. Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
36 Dover St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
5 Dover St. Front Needs Screening Medium Residential
31 Franklin St. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
23 Franklin St. Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
66 Franklin St. Front Needs Screening Small Residential
76 Spring St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
99 Spring St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
77 Spring St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Residential
8 Towns St. Front Needs Screening Small Residential
7 Towns St. Front Needs Screening Small Residential
69 Washington St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Private Church
81 Roxbury St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Large Residential
20 Norway Ave. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
17 93rd St. 2 in Sideyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
53 Harrison St. Front Needs Screening Small Residential
115 Church St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
141 Church St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
140 Church St. Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
153 Church St. Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
166 Church St. Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Residential
206 Church St. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
205 Church St. Side Needs Screening Small Residential
214 Church St. Front Needs Screening Medium Residential
241 Church St. Front Needs Screening Large Industrial
44 Probate St. Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
6 Kingsbury St. 2 in Sideyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
139 Railroad St. Parking Lot Needs Screening Medium Commercial

Zone 4
87 Spruce Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
110 Spruce Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
81 Armory Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
152 Carrol Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential

52

143 Carrol Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
111 Carrol Street Backyard Has Screening Small Residential
119 Carrol Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Residential
43 Walnut Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
4 Walnut Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
38 High Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
68 Howard Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
201 Elm Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
109 High Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
361 Court Street Backyard Has Screening Small Residential
58 Forest Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
104 High Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
206 Washington Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
28 Coolidge Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
29 Coolidge Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
25 Coolidge Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
1 Howard Street Curbside Needs Screening Medium Residential
49 Court Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Commercial
20 Central Square Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Commercial
23 Central Square Front Needs Screening Medium Private Church
196 Washington Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
113 Cross Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
116 Cross Street Front Needs Screening Small Commercial
138 Cross Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
94 High Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
154 Washington Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
28 Green Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
40 Cross Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
13 Union Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
21 Union Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
49 Union Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
71 Union Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
97 Union Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential

53

126 Elm Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Residential
77 Elm Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
15 Pleasant Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
24 Vernon Street Front Needs Screening Medium Commercial
37 Mechanic Street 2 in Backyard Needs Screening Large Commercial
82 Washington Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
100 Washington Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Commercial

Zone 5
268 West Street Backyard Has Screening Medium Commercial
144 Island Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
7 Cady Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
150 Island Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
328 Pearl Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
5 Wood Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
86 Wood Street Side Has Screening Medium Commercial
97 Wood Street Side Has Screening Medium Commercial
301 Pearl Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
290 Pearl Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
245 Pearl Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
163 Meadow Road Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
25 Lee Street Front Has Screening Small Residential
16 Lee Street Side Has Screening Small Residential
372 West Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
353 West Street Backyard Needs Screening Large Commercial
341 West Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
40 Avon Street Backyard Needs Screening Large Private School

Zone 6
29 Ashuelot Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
47 Park Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
31 Park Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
47 Colorado Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
63 Colorado Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential

54

82 Colorado Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
67 Winter Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
91 West Street Backyard Has Screening Small Public Church
25 Woodburn Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
70 Woodburn Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Residential
88 Woodburn Street Front Needs Screening Small Residential
40 Perham Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
109 Woodburn Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
549 Court Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
677 Court Street Backyard Needs Screening Large Commercial
418 Court Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
105 Castle Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential

Zone 7
71 Cottage Street Side Has Screening Small Residential
75 Cottage Street Side Has Screening Small Residential
217 Washington Street Backyard Has Screening Medium Public School
206 Washington Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
181 Washington Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Commercial
155 Washington Street Side Doesn’t Need Screening Small Commercial
173 Washington Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
20 Wilford Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
61 Wilford Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
19 Ellis Court Side Needs Screening Small Residential
69 Washington Avenue Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Small Private Church
349 Washington Street 2 in Backyard Needs Screening Small Commercial
39 Ellis Court Side Needs Screening Small Residential
48 Ellis Court Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
20 Ellis Court Side Doesn’t Need Screening Small Residential
369 Washington Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Commercial
11 Burdett Street Backyard Needs Screening Medium Commercial
9 Giffin Street Side Needs Screening Large Commercial
95 George Street Curbside Needs Screening Medium Residential
130 George Street Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
16 Sullivan Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Residential
8 Sullivan Street Side Needs Screening Small Residential
62 Rule Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
93 Sullivan Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential
7 Charles Street Curbside Needs Screening Small Residential

55

508 Washington Street Curbside Needs Screening Medium Commercial
438 Washington Street Backyard Doesn’t Need Screening Medium Private School
510 Washington Street Side Needs Screening Small Commercial
527 Washington Street Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Medium Commercial
313 Washington Street Backyard Has Screening Medium Residential
11 Citizens Way 3 in Front Has Screening Medium Residential
65 Washington Avenue Backyard Needs Screening Small Residential
312 Washington Street Backyard Has Screening Medium Public Recreation
528 Washington Street 2 in Backyard Doesn't Need Screening Medium Commercial

Zone 8
428 Court Street Side Needs Screening Medium Residential
79 North Street Side Needs Screening Medium Commercial
422 Elm Street Front Has Screening Medium Public School
110 Gilsum Street 2 in Backyard Has Screening Large Residential

56

Appendix B – Photographs

Dumpster in Violation of Ordinance

Dumpster in Violation of Ordinance
57

Dumpster Not in Violation of Ordinance

58

Appendix C – Survey Instrument

Hello! We are students completing our Senior Thesis for Keene State College’s Department of
Geography. Our thesis revolves around a city of Keene ordinance regarding dumpster screenings. The
city of Keene recently passed an ordinance requiring all city properties with dumpsters visible from
the street address to be enclosed with some sort of barrier. Response to this ordinance has been
varied. Please help us by giving your personal opinion on the enclosures by answering the following.

1. Please circle: Renter Homeowner

2. Are you currently enrolled at Keene State College? Yes No

Please rank (1-6) the following aspects that may affect the quality of life in your neighborhood:

Trash/Litter Noise

Dumpsters Unkempt Housing

Parking/Traffic Other*

*If other: ______________________________________________________

Presently, do you have a dumpster on your property? Yes No

3. Are you aware of the 2008 ordinance requiring Keene properties to screen Yes No
all dumpsters?

Please check your agreement level to the following questions:

4. I am satisfied with the quality of life in my neighborhood.
1 2 3 4 5

Strongly Disagree Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

5. In comparison to other Keene neighborhoods, the quality of life in my neighborhood is:

Significantly Lower Lower Equivalent Higher Significantly Higher

60

6. Visible dumpsters negatively impact the quality of life in my neighborhood.
1 2 3 4


7. If dumpsters were screened, the quality of life in my neighborhood would increase.
1 2 3 4 5


8. Enclosures that the city of Keene is requiring may cost upwards of $3,000-$5,000. This is an
acceptable price to pay in order to screen dumpsters and improve neighborhood aesthetics.
1 2 3 4 5


9. This ordinance requirement will improve the quality of life in the city of Keene.
1 2 3 4 5


Answer the following ONLY if you have a dumpster on your property:

10. I am a renter with a dumpster on my property, and willing to pay a higher monthly rent for
dumpster screenings.
1 2 3 4 5


11. In terms of waste disposal, having a dumpster on my property provides me with convenience.
1 2 3 4 5


Please provide any additional comments regarding this issue:

61

Appendix D – Additional Maps

62

Keene Dumpsters

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