Giant piles of trash prompt action from City of Topeka against local landlord

TOPEKA (KSNT) - The City of Topeka is addressing the concerns of numerous people this week of overflowing dumpsters in the area.

City of Topeka spokesman Dan Garrett announced in a press release that city officials are taking action after reports of dumpsters overflowing with trash were made at multiple properties owned by the same landlord. The situation has raised concerns among local residents regarding public health in the city.

Garrett said Topeka's Property Maintenance Unit has been in contact with the landlord and has issued citations in accordance with the city's ordinances. The landlord has taken steps to resolve this issue with new dumpsters expected to be delivered to the impacted areas later in the week.

"The City of Topeka recognizes that some tenants may hesitate to report property maintenance issues, such as overflowing dumpsters or unsafe living conditions, due to fear of retaliation or eviction by their landlord. In May 2024, the Topeka City Council strengthened its retaliatory eviction ordinance, ensuring residents can assert their right to a clean, safe, and sanitary home without fear of retaliation."

City of Topeka press release excerpt

People in Topeka can find more details about city resources regarding their rights and possible retaliatory actions by clicking here. Tenants and other members of the community are encouraged to report property maintenance worries by calling the city's Property Maintenance Division at 785-368-3161, send an email to propertymaintenance@topeka.org or use the SeeClickFix app.

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