ORANJESTAD (AAN): City Inspector Maikel Gomes reported in an interview with DIARIO that the Bureau City Inspector (BCI) receives a significant number of complaints regarding garbage being dumped on private land. He emphasized that these cases are both alarming and unfortunate since the waste is often placed on property owned by residents.
“Whether it’s a private home, apartment, or other private land, garbage should remain the responsibility of the property owner,” Gomes noted. However, some individuals dispose of food waste and other trash on private lots, causing issues for neighbors. He cited a case in Noord where trash, including food waste, filled a lot and attracted vermin, impacting the surrounding community.
BCI typically verifies land ownership and works with local authorities and the Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) to resolve disputes when private land is involved. According to Gomes, about 80% of these garbage-related complaints occur on private land, while only 20–25% are on government property.
The BCI’s role is to mediate, inspect, and ensure private properties are cleaned responsibly. Costs incurred to clear these sites are borne by BCI’s budget, managed under the Land Aruba authority.
