Mid City Times

Resident concerns initially led to the discovery of a large illegal dump site in a heavily vegetated area off Randol Mill Road in east Fort Worth. Following an extensive investigation, the City of Fort Worth is collaborating with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to ensure property owners remove the dumped materials from the site.

“It is so important that neighbors take ownership of their communities,” said Mayor Pro Tem Gyna M. Bivens, who represents the eastside neighborhood where the dump was discovered. “One nearby property owner saw something that looked questionable on this property just east of the roundabout. What we found was the making of a monument to blight. We found tires and other items that still need to be hauled away. Thanks to the diligence of nearby neighbors, we are finally able to see a solution in sight to this situation.”

City News interviewed Environmental Services Director Cody Whittenburg for more details:

Q: Can you describe the magnitude of the dump?

A: Exact quantities are difficult to estimate because materials are partially buried and vegetation is dense. TCEQ investigations from April 12, 2024, suggested over 7,000 cubic yards of solid waste were observed, including an estimate of approximately 1,300 tires. City of Fort Worth investigators estimate around 2,000 cubic yards remain onsite, which is about 250 standard dump trucks.

Q: What are the next steps in the cleanup?

A: At this time, the property owners are leading the cleanup efforts and are responsible for hiring a cleanup company, disposing of materials properly, documenting disposal, and sending appropriate documentation to TCEQ and the City. Following a lengthy investigation and enforcement process, cleanup efforts began on June 25, 2024, with 51 tons of shingles removed from the site. Some illegally-dumped materials which have been buried will need to be excavated for disposal. Property owners will advise the City on timelines for continued cleanup.

Q: Which City of Fort Worth departments are involved in the cleanup?

A: TCEQ is currently leading enforcement at this location. Several City departments have assisted TCEQ and will continue supporting communications between agencies. These include Environmental Services, Police, Fire and Code Compliance.

Q: What is TCEQ's role in the cleanup process?

A: As part of the cleanup process, TCEQ will review documents provided by property owners to ensure proper disposal of materials. This includes manifests and weight scale tickets for trucks hauling away debris. The City anticipates that TCEQ will escalate enforcement if cleanup activities or communication cease.

Q: Will landowners face fines or charges?

A: TCEQ will determine fines and penalties associated with this case. The Fort Worth Police Department has issued a warrant for an individual believed responsible for allowing trucks to illegally dump on this property. The property owners claim they were unaware these items were being disposed at this site until contacted by city officials.

Q: What’s the estimated cost of cleanup?

A: Property owners are financially responsible for cleaning up their property; however, total costs remain undetermined at this time.

Q: What risks are associated with this illegal dump?

A: Primary concerns include fire hazards posed by piles of roof shingles and tires which can endanger nearby properties and result in smoke release as well as polluted stormwater runoff.

Q: What timeline should we expect?

A: Property owners have committed to completing cleanups while coordinating specific timelines with TCEQ. They must remove all illegally dumped solid waste from sites disposing it at authorized facilities with documentation.

Whittenburg emphasized community involvement stating “Dumping on public or private property is illegal – whether small amounts associated with littering or large quantities like seen here.” He urged residents “Stop It Report It Pick It Up!”

For reporting illegal dumping use MyFW app call 311 Fort Worth Contact Center (817-392-1234/311) email report@fortworth.gov; For ongoing illegal dumping call nonemergency line (817-392-4222).

Photo caption:

City staff reviewed initial cleanup efforts alongside property owners during reinspection at East Randol Mill Road location July 10th

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