Fort Worth illegal dump site vanishes after tax break investigation

In Fort Worth, a long-neglected illegal dump site is undergoing cleanup following a CBS News Texas investigation. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had previously ordered the site to be cleaned up in May 2022, but it remained untouched until recent actions prompted by community concerns. The property owners claimed the land was used for livestock, which allowed them to receive significant tax breaks, but inspections revealed no supporting evidence for these claims. The situation escalated when the city seized horses that were brought to the property amid an animal cruelty investigation. The horses were found to be in poor condition due to inadequate access to food and water, as well as exposure to hazardous debris. They are now being cared for at a rescue center, where efforts are being made to rehabilitate them. City council member Gyna Bivens emphasized the importance of property owners being accountable for their land, regardless of their physical presence. The cleanup efforts began in mid-September, with heavy machinery removing debris from the site, indicating a significant shift in the city's approach to managing illegal dumping. The case highlights the broader issue of property neglect and the responsibilities of landowners. As the cleanup progresses, it serves as a reminder that property ownership comes with obligations to maintain and ensure the safety of the environment and surrounding community.