The protest against the disposal of fire debris at the Calabasas Landfill in Agoura Hills drew a crowd of concerned citizens on Saturday morning. The protesters, including families and children, gathered to voice their opposition to the plan to dump up to 5,000 tons of debris per day as part of the cleanup operation following the destructive Los Angeles County wildfires.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated the second phase of the cleanup from the Eaton and Palisades fires, which caused significant damage to structures in Altadena and Pacific Palisades. As part of this cleanup effort, the Calabasas Landfill, one of several nonhazardous waste landfills in Southern California, was approved to receive fire debris, hazardous trees, and ash from the affected areas.
The impending arrival of trucks carrying debris to the landfill prompted the City of Calabasas to extend the landfill’s hours of operation and increase the daily tonnage limit. This decision was met with strong opposition from the local community, leading to a protest outside the landfill and a letter from the Calabasas City Council to the L.A. County Board of Supervisors expressing their concerns.
### Environmental Concerns and Community Opposition
Residents and leaders from various foothill communities in L.A. County have raised valid concerns regarding the potential health and environmental risks associated with the disposal of fire debris. The use of temporary staging areas for hazardous materials, such as Lario Park in Irwindale and the Altadena Golf Course, has also faced opposition from neighboring cities.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has assured safety measures at the staging areas, including air quality monitoring and dust suppression. Despite these precautions, residents remain wary of the long-term implications of depositing hazardous materials in landfill sites near residential areas.
### Protecting Our Communities: A Mother’s Perspective
One of the protesters, Kelly Rapf Martino, shared her personal concerns as a mother living near the landfill. She emphasized the need to safeguard the health of children, schools, and the environment from potential risks associated with toxic materials. Martino highlighted the importance of proper asbestos testing and disposal procedures to prevent harmful substances from entering the landfill.
While Col. Brian Sawser from the Army Corps provided assurances of thorough testing and abatement processes, concerns linger among residents about the potential presence of hazardous materials in the landfill. The uncertainty surrounding the cleanup efforts has fueled the resolve of groups like Protect Calabasas to continue protesting and advocating for alternative disposal methods.
As the community prepares for the arrival of trucks carrying fire debris to the Calabasas Landfill, residents are reminded of the importance of safeguarding public health and environmental well-being. The collective efforts of concerned citizens, local leaders, and environmental agencies underscore the need for responsible waste management practices in the aftermath of natural disasters. By prioritizing safety and sustainability, communities can work together to protect the future health and vitality of their neighborhoods.
