Concerns over rising waste management costs took center stage at the La Habra Heights City Council meeting on October 14, 2024, as residents voiced their frustrations about new trash collection policies. Lynn Norsworthy, a local resident, highlighted the challenges faced by horse owners in the community, particularly regarding the disposal of horse manure.

Norsworthy expressed her discontent with the current pricing structure, stating that the cost of $45 per trash can for manure removal is excessive. She emphasized that responsible horse owners who regularly clean their corrals are being unfairly penalized by these fees. "Anyone's everyone's gonna end up dumping their manure on their property, and then we're gonna have the fly issue all over and the smell," she warned, underscoring the potential public health implications of the new policy.

The resident also raised concerns about the lack of clarity in billing, noting that the new charges were not itemized, leaving many residents confused about what they were being charged for. "I don't have somebody sent me an itemized change of what my bill is gonna be," she lamented, calling for more transparency in the billing process.

Norsworthy's comments reflect a broader sentiment among residents who are grappling with the financial burden of waste management in La Habra Heights. As discussions continue, the City Council faces pressure to address these concerns and find a solution that balances environmental responsibilities with the needs of the community.