How You Reacted to Our L.A. Trash Crisis Story

The Trash Problem in Los Angeles: A Call for Change

After a recent article highlighted the growing issue of trash in Los Angeles, readers from all walks of life shared their own experiences, frustrations, and ideas for solutions. Their responses painted a vivid picture of a city struggling with cleanliness and responsibility.

One of the most compelling accounts came from John Betz, a former ship captain who drew parallels between his experience managing a vessel and the challenges faced by the city. He described how, during his time on a ship, maintaining cleanliness was a constant battle. Out of 27 crew members, only three were dedicated to daily cleaning, yet the ship still seemed to be losing ground. It wasn’t until he implemented strict rules that the situation improved. He required sailors to remove their dirty boots before entering living quarters and mandated that meals be eaten only in the mess room to avoid spills. These small but significant changes led to a dramatic reduction in the time and cost needed to keep the ship clean. Betz believed that similar principles could apply to Los Angeles. He pointed out that allowing homeless encampments to spread trash, irresponsible landlords letting furniture pile up on the streets, and drug users rummaging through trash bins are all contributing factors. He argued that the city must take action by holding accountable those responsible for these issues and improving trash collection systems.

Other readers echoed similar sentiments in shorter comments. One praised the article as "terrifically written" and called attention to the fact that "L.A. has let itself become a dump." Another reader discussed the inefficiency of the city's 311 system, noting that while it works for bulky items and graffiti, Caltrans is slow in addressing these issues. They also suggested that the city should focus on tree planting, billboard removal, and burying utility poles to improve its appearance.

Some readers highlighted the importance of community efforts and local leaders. They praised Councilmember Traci Park for her work on the Westside and recognized long-standing initiatives like Playa del Rey’s community cleanup, which has been ongoing for four decades. Others commended neighborhood cleanups in areas like "The Jungle."

A few readers warned about the financial burden that could come with proposed solutions. One mentioned that Los Angeles Sanitation plans to double residential trash fees to cover the costs of cleaning up homeless encampments. They urged residents to take action before the September 30 deadline.

For many, the message was clear and simple: "Well said."

Solutions and Actions Needed

To address the growing trash problem in Los Angeles, several steps must be taken:

• Enforce Accountability: The city needs to cite and penalize landlords who allow abandoned furniture to accumulate on their properties and in surrounding neighborhoods.
• Clear Encampments: Efforts must be made to remove homeless encampments that contribute significantly to the city’s waste issues.
• Cite Litterers: Aggressive enforcement of littering laws is essential to prevent people from throwing trash on the streets.
• Improve Trash Collection: Residents have expressed frustration with the current system, calling 311 a joke. Better resources and more efficient collection methods are needed.
• Invest in Community Initiatives: Supporting volunteer groups and local clean-up efforts can help maintain the city’s cleanliness and foster a sense of community ownership.

The Role of Residents

Residents play a crucial role in keeping the city clean. By reporting issues, participating in clean-up events, and holding local officials accountable, individuals can contribute to meaningful change. As one reader noted, "The truth hurts," but it’s a necessary step toward improvement.

In conclusion, the trash problem in Los Angeles is not just an environmental issue—it’s a reflection of broader social and systemic challenges. Addressing it requires a combination of policy changes, community involvement, and individual responsibility. Only through collective effort can the city hope to restore its cleanliness and dignity.