Los Angeles Mayor Declares Trash House a Public Health Emergency, Vows Quick Action

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
03/04/2024 22h00

In the affluent Fairfax District of Los Angeles, a residential property has become a cause for concern among neighbors due to its deteriorating state and accumulating trash. The home, owned by Raymond Gaon, has drawn attention not only for its unsightly appearance but also for the potential public safety hazards it poses.

Visible from the front and backyards, a substantial amount of junk, mostly contained in white trash bags, litters the premises. The debris even engulfs a car parked in the driveway, obstructing the front door. Further exacerbating the situation, the property is surrounded by multi-million dollar homes, making the presence of the "trash house" all the more apparent and alarming.

Neighbors have reported that the overwhelming smell emanating from the property is unbearable, and they have even observed rats scurrying amidst the mess. Some residents claim to have witnessed Gaon collecting trash in a shopping cart and bringing it back to the home.

According to public records obtained by the Los Angeles Times, Gaon has owned the two-bedroom property since the mid-1990s. In the past, action was taken to address the issue, resulting in fines for the homeowner. However, neighbors attest that the situation has worsened since then.

The city officials responsible for addressing such matters have been made aware of the situation and are currently exploring their options. They are considering taking matters into their own hands by cleaning up the premises and charging the owner for the service.

In response to the gravity of the situation, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared the trash house a public health emergency during a press briefing. Expressing her concern for the safety of both the homeowner and the surrounding community, she highlighted the urgent need for action.

Mayor Bass emphasized that she had just learned about the situation on Tuesday night and was actively investigating the history of complaints regarding the property. Determined to expedite the cleanup process, she vowed not to waste any time and promptly instructed city crews to begin clearing the debris that same day.

Addressing the potential dangers posed by the cluttered property, Mayor Bass stressed the fire hazard it presents and the risk of loss of life. She condemned the situation as "outrageous" and assured the public that it would be resolved without delay.

As the city of Los Angeles mobilizes to resolve this public health emergency, the cleanup operations are underway to restore the Fairfax District to its pristine state.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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