Northeast Houston residents frustrated by lingering Hurricane Beryl debris pile
Northeast Houston residents frustrated by lingering Hurricane Beryl debris pile
Residents in Northeast Houston are urging the city to address a persistent pile of debris and trash at Levering Lane and Teesdale Drive, which has become an illegal dumping site and health concern following Hurricane Beryl.
HOUSTON - Six months after Hurricane Beryl, a towering pile of debris and trash is spotted in a Northeast Houston neighborhood, leaving residents frustrated and concerned about health hazards.
Ongoing frustration over unresolved debris
What we know:
The large pile sits at the corner of Levering Lane and Teesdale Drive. Initially comprised of a fallen tree from the July storm, it has since become an illegal dumping ground for various items, including tires.

A large pile of debris and trash in a Northeast Houston neighborhood. Residents say the debris has been there since Hurricane Beryl knocked it down in July.
Residents demand action on trash heap
What they're saying:
"We have called the city once or twice, and they said that we need to pick up the trash first, and then they'll come and get the wood," said Mahogany Cosey, a resident of the neighborhood. "It's a nice neighborhood, and it's quiet...but I think they just neglect it."
The growing mess has brought unwelcome guests into nearby homes. Cosey reported an influx of mice from the debris pile.
"Rats, roaches...and if you get a big rain, we're concerned about the water backed up, and it could back up and get in your home," added Rev. James Tucker, another resident.

A large pile of debris and trash in a Northeast Houston neighborhood. Residents say the debris has been there since Hurricane Beryl knocked it down in July.
City's Cleanup Efforts Under Scrutiny
Dig deeper:
The City of Houston's Solid Waste Management website indicates that over 2.1 million cubic yards of debris have been collected since the hurricane. Their online map shows debris piles were identified at the Levering and Teesdale intersection, and a second pass in the area was completed. However, the problematic pile remains.
"Not only me, but many more have called and reported, and they're not doing anything," Tucker said. "I believe if it was in a different neighborhood, River Oaks or somewhere like that, they'd respond faster..."
Statement from Solid Waste Management Department:
The other side:
The Solid Waste Management Department collected debris from this location on at least three different occasions, well conducting storm debris removal operations. We received inquiries regarding this illegal dumping on the vacant property and dispatched a team member to investigate the location. It was determined this site poses overhead obstructions that prevents the safe removal of debris.
As we approach the weekend, our teams will reevaluate the opportunities to safely remove the debris without endangering staff or adversely impacting the community. Our Solid Waste Code Enforcement Division will also contact the property owner to advise them of their responsibilities to maintain the condition of their property.
The Source: FOX 26's Sherman Desselle spoke with members of the community where the trash pile is located.