San Gabriel Valley city officials have voiced their strong opposition to the recent federal plans involving the use of Lario Park as a temporary hazardous waste collection site following the Eaton Fire. According to KTLA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated the park, located just north of the 210 Freeway in Irwindale, to process various hazardous materials such as paints, cleansers, oils, and batteries, as well as asbestos. Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis weighed in on the situation, asserting that "this federal project has not included consultation or consideration of the local communities that will be directly affected."
Officials from cities including Duarte, Azusa, Irwindale, and Baldwin Park stand in alliance over the issue, despite the apparent preparations already underway at the site for the operations set to kick off the following week. In response to the potential hazards, Duarte will host a town hall to engage with residents on the matter. In asserting the cities' joint position, Baldwin Park Mayor Alejandro Avila said, "The absence of any meaningful consultation with affected cities prior to this decision is unacceptable," as reported by KTLA. The sentiment is echoed by Azusa City Councilmember Andrew Mendez who, struggling with the decision, stated "I’m incredibly frustrated that our counterparts have taken the political route and not notified us with something so serious that could have health ramifications to our residents."
Among the community, there is a palpable feeling of discontent, as made evident by the formal opposition to the site by the cities. In a statement procured by FOX LA, the city of Duarte expressed its extreme disappointment "with the lack of respect to our local residents for not being notified of the EPA's cleanup efforts." To facilitate a dialogue, state Sen. Susan Rubio's office is coordinating with the municipalities to organize a town hall, with details soon to be announced.
