Omaha, Nebraska – Residents near Albright Park are increasingly alarmed by the consistent problem of illegal dumping at a local cul-de-sac. The issue, they say, has persisted for almost three years.
Stephen Bolgar, a resident of the area, dedicates his time to cleaning up this mess, visiting the cul-de-sac at least three times a month to pick up trash. Just this Monday, Bolgar discovered discarded sofa chairs, a window, cigarette butts, broken glass, and numerous empty bottles.
Despite the presence of “No Dumping” signs, Bolgar expressed concerns about the insufficient measures to deter such activities. “There are no dumping signs around here and there’s no deterrent for dumping,” Bolgar pointed out, suggesting that improved lighting might serve as a deterrent.
As a member of the Mandan Neighborhood Association, Bolgar has an intrinsic role in ensuring the safety and cleanliness of regions like these in South Omaha. The increasing amount of dumped waste, however, is overwhelming and, as Bolgar notes, presents a safety risk.
Bolgar isn’t alone in his concerns. He, along with other residents, has approached the city for assistance, but their pleas have seemingly gone unanswered.
Yet, the Omaha Public Works is not oblivious to the situation. The department’s director, Austin Rowser, acknowledged the issue. “It is criminal behavior and it is wrong and it’s unfortunate for people that live nearby these sites,” he commented. Rowser emphasized that illegal dumping is not only an offense punishable by up to three months in jail under Nebraska state law but also detrimental to the community.
For now, Omaha Public Works has addressed the problem by cleaning up the area. However, the onus to put up additional warning signs rests with the Omaha Police Department (OPD), contingent upon them witnessing the illegal dumping firsthand. As Rowser remarked, “We’re always happy to comply with that and we’re always happy to comply with law enforcement.” Yet, no such action has been taken so far by the OPD.
Bolgar feels the city and OPD could do more. “Trash seems to be a lower priority,” he lamented.
The cleanup might have temporarily addressed the aesthetics of the area, but residents’ concerns linger. The trash not only mars the beauty of the surroundings but also poses potential health risks to both humans and the wildlife of the adjacent family park.
