<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=123UJu_0w9OvAo800" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=123UJu_0w9OvAo800" width="1662" height="1247" ><figcaption>Westside Current</figcaption></figure>VENICE - Illegal dumping is more than an eyesore; it affects entire communities, including local wildlife. Debris left in public spaces or on private property without city approval contributes to urban blight and environmental harm.On the Westside, the problem is compounded by its proximity to the coast. Trash left on streets or sidewalks often washes into storm drains, flowing directly into the ocean. This pollution not only mars the coastline but threatens marine ecosystems.MyLA311 defines illegal dumping as unclaimed materials left in alleys, cul-de-sacs, or apartment refuse areas. Residents can easily report such dumping for city cleanup. If something looks out of place, it likely is. THE OVERVIEWThe Westside had 2,257 requests from January to August of this year, almost half of which came from Venice. THE GOOD NEWSMy LA311 has closed 93% of cases reported since January, most of which within a few days or weeks. THE CONNECTIONSWhile this information may say more about where residents are likely to report illegal dumping, it can help tell residents if the city is aware of the illegal dumping in their area. If they aren’t, it's up to you and your neighbors to report it. THE HOT SPOTSAcross the street from the Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library is one of the most frequently reported illegal dumping sites in the area. Since January, there have been 18 service requests to clear debris at 501 E. Venice Blvd. Items removed include auto parts, bedding, glass bottles, wood, and more.Below are the neighborhoods in the westside, ordered from most to least illegal dumping service requests. VENICEVenice had the most service requests, with 745 reported since January.WESTCHESTERWestchester had significantly fewer reports than Venice but still ranked second, with 343 requests this year.MAR VISTAMar Vista came in third with 297 requests, 16 of which were across the street from the Culver West Health Care nursing home and rehabilitation center.DEL REYDel Rey had 270 requests since January.WESTWOODWestwood received 226 illegal dumping service requests this year, with monthly totals ranging from 28 to 55.BRENTWOODBrentwood has received 137 requests so far.PLAYA DEL REYPlaya Del Rey received 137 requests this year, with a gradual slowdown since May.PLAYA VISTAPlaya Vista had 49 requests, 13 of which are still pending. The area did not exceed 10 requests per month all year until July and August, when 12 were reported in each month.CENTURY CITYCentury City had 21 requests this year, all resolved except for one that was serviced in March but remains marked as pending.</div></body>

Mountain View, CA

NewsBreak

Westside's Hidden Mess: Where Illegal Dumping is Piling Up

VENICE - Illegal dumping is more than an eyesore; it affects entire communities, including local wildlife. Debris left in public spaces or on private property without city approval contributes to urban blight and environmental harm. On the Westside, the problem is compounded by its proximity to the coast. Trash left...