Soon it should be harder for people to steal copper and metal in Chatham-Kent (CK).
Earlier this week, CK's council approved updating the municipality's Business Licensing By-law in an attempt to reduce the number of thefts.
These changes, which were developed after talks with CK police, include needing police approval to buy manhole covers, guard rails, street signs, storm grates, and other municipal infrastructure items, payment for materials, such as copper, bronze, or metallic wire having to be made by cheque or electronic transfer, and having salvage businesses improve record-keeping.
Anyone buying materials with altered serial numbers will also need approval from police.
The municipality plans to mail all salvage businesses, explaining all these changes.
