Reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian joined Calabasas residents in a rally on Thursday afternoon, protesting the decision to dump wildfire debris from the Palisades and Eaton Fires into the Calabasas Landfill. Holding a sign that read “Fill Our Hydrants, Not Our Dumps,” Kardashian spoke out against the potential health risks posed by toxic ash and debris.
“We’re here to make it known that we’re not OK with this,” Kardashian said. “Toxic chemicals and ash do not belong in a community where there are kids and families.”
The Calabasas Landfill is one of three Los Angeles County landfills designated to receive Phase 2 fire debris, which includes ash, soil, and remnants of destroyed homes. Despite assurances from officials that hazardous waste is being removed, community members fear the health and environmental risks posed by the debris.
Why Are Calabasas Residents Protesting?
Key Concerns:
- Toxic Chemicals & Ash – Residents worry about air and groundwater contamination.
- Health Risks for Families – The landfill is close to homes, schools, and parks.
- Dumping Increase Approved – LA County raised daily dumping limits for at least six months.
- Debris from Outside Areas – The landfill will now accept waste from other fire zones.
Calabasas Mayor Peter Kraut acknowledged the need for fire recovery efforts but opposed the waste being dumped in residential areas.
“Palisades and the City of Malibu are entitled to a speedy recovery, but we don’t want to take one environmental hazard to another location.”
Last Week’s Protest: Community members blocked the landfill entrance, chanting “No poison dumped into our ground.”
What Do Officials Say?
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Decision
- On Tuesday, the board approved increased dumping limits at the three designated landfills.
- The decision aims to expedite cleanup efforts in wildfire-affected areas.
EPA & Federal Officials’ Reassurance
- Hazardous waste from fire zones will not be sent to Calabasas.
- Those materials will be taken to specialized hazardous waste facilities.
Calabasas Landfill’s Statement
- The landfill is certified to handle disaster waste once hazardous materials are removed.
Despite these reassurances, residents remain skeptical about the long-term safety of dumping large amounts of wildfire debris near homes.
Kourtney Kardashian Speaks Out
Kardashian, a longtime Calabasas resident, called for alternative locations for dumping the fire debris.
“We would love it to go to the middle of nowhere—where it’s not around any families or children.”
She also expressed concern about toxic exposure, noting that there is a park near the landfill.
“It’s just scary to think about staying here with all these toxins being dumped in our community, and watching it drive by is actually terrifying.”
