Illegal dumping an ‘eyesore’ for Tantalus area residents

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Those living near Tantalus said it has a reputation for being a dumping ground for crime.

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“From drug dealing to racing to all kinds of issues, no trash clean up. We just haven’t seen any improvement,” stated Grant, a Tantalus resident.

According to Grant, multiple piles of rubbish can be seen along Tantalus Road. Thirty to 40 residents have worked together to clean up the area at least once every month, but their efforts have not been able to keep up with the growing piles, said Grant.

“It’s hard to live up here and it’s hard to see people come in and try to enjoy these lookouts and what Hawaii’s supposed to be, the nature and the beauty, and then come up here and see this. It’s a shame,” said Grant.

The City will take action to address illegal dumping in the Tantalus area, but it is disheartening to see people disrespect our beloved communities by dumping waste on our streets. Not only does it create an eyesore, but it forces the City to divert valuable resources and time away from essential services to clean up these messes. Illegal dumping not only harms the environment but also burdens taxpayers, who ultimately fund the cleanup efforts. The City provides free and convenient options for the proper disposal of trash and bulk items and encourages everyone to take advantage of these services rather than engaging in illegal activity.

City & County of Honolulu

Grant along with many other neighbors said they are also concerned about environmental impacts from illegal dumping.

“This watershed provides water to the entire city of Honolulu. There are people who come and change their oil and dump it straight into the dirt. The more trash that’s dumped here, the more appealing it becomes for people to dump,” said Grant.

Residents said illegal dumping is not the only problem. Racing is the biggest issue, according to Makiki-Tantalus Neighborhood Board Chair, Nathaniel Char.

“Very organized group of racers will come up here. They’ll post spotters at the top and at the bottom to make sure no cops are coming and to bug out when cops do show up,” stated Char.

To combat these crimes, Char said residents are taking these matters into their own hands as well.

“They’re starting to kind of try and build up a network of cameras to gather as much [evidence] as they can to hand over to the police,” said Char. “Maybe the police will do something.”

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Many residents expressed wanting more law enforcement presence and measures to combat crimes in the area. Many families with young keiki were especially concerned.

“I’m just waiting for the next unfortunate person to get hit,” stated Grant. “There needs to be better monitoring. I don’t need to be the police officer on the Hill.”

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