Regarding San Diego’s new trash removal program, I own a property in Encanto, a vacant lot with no structures. Officials have denied city trash pickup for this property. Yet I have received threatening notices from the Environment Services Department, stating that if I don’t contract with a private hauler, I will be fined by the city to the tune of $250 every 14 days (up to $1,000). I’ve called twice and left messages with no response. I’ve emailed with no response. My lawyer has emailed an appeal, no response. My lawyer went to their offices and was told no walk-ins. I am 77 years old. All this time the city is spending harassing me for a property that is a vacant lot with no structures on it. Can you see trash cans in the middle of a vacant lot? Our city at its best.
— Jim Cornelius, San Diego