‘Care for Us Instead’: Community Fights Fire Debris Dumping in L.A.

Residents of Granada Hills gathered Monday evening to protest plans to dispose of fire debris and waste from the Eaton and Palisades fires at Sunshine Canyon Landfill.

The demonstration, one of several in recent weeks, was driven by concerns about potentially hazardous materials being placed near schools, homes, and a water reservoir without adequate testing.

According to KTLA’s Angeli Kakade, the protest quickly grew from a handful of participants to over 60 people, with demonstrators holding signs at the intersection of Balboa Boulevard and Rinaldi Street.

“We’ve already dealt with Aliso Canyon gas leaks and strong winds spreading fire smoke,” said local resident Beverly Spooner. “Now we’re facing this toxic dump—it’s too much.”

In response to concerns, Republic Services, the company that operates Sunshine Canyon, defended the landfill’s safety measures. A statement from the company highlighted its liner system, cover system, and gas collection system designed to manage waste safely and responsibly.

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The protest occurred just a day before the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors was set to vote on a plan that could increase waste disposal at Sunshine Canyon, as well as at Calabasas and Lancaster landfills, to accommodate debris from recent wildfires.

“Spend the money,” urged local resident Michael Spooner. “Why not truck the debris away from all communities in L.A.? Just protect us.”

City Councilmember John Lee, a longtime advocate for environmental protections in the area, has publicly opposed the proposal.

“As someone who has lived in Council District 12 for over 40 years and as a father, my top priority is this community’s health and safety,” Lee stated on Facebook earlier this month. “Allowing Sunshine Canyon to take in this debris without proper testing and oversight is a slap in the face to the residents who already endure environmental hardships.”

Lee reaffirmed his opposition in an interview Monday, stating he has worked to block the proposal through petitions and legislative efforts, but the vote remains scheduled for Tuesday .

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Lailyah Duncan

Lailyah Duncan is an insightful writer at The Chieftain Spear, where she explores themes of culture, resilience, and community through compelling storytelling. Passionate about bringing diverse perspectives to light, Lailyah's work reflects a deep commitment to empowering voices and fostering meaningful conversations. With a talent for weaving narrative and purpose, she continues to inspire her readers with thought-provoking articles that celebrate heritage and advocate for positive change.

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