UPDATE: A Houston homeowner is urgently seeking answers after the City of Houston’s solid waste management team removed her landscaping stones, leaving her concerned for her property’s safety. Maria Trevino reported the missing stones on September 18, 2023, and has since received no resolution from the city’s 3-1-1 service.
Trevino discovered the large rocks missing upon returning home, prompting her to question, “Where are the rocks? Where are the stones?” These landscaping stones were strategically placed on her property to prevent vehicles from veering into her yard, a problem she had faced for years. “Ever since I had put them in that design, I never had that problem again,” she explained, highlighting the critical role these stones played in protecting her home.
On the morning of September 18, Trevino’s security cameras captured footage at 10:03 a.m., showing the stones in place. Just three minutes later, the footage revealed a large piece of machinery removing the stones, raising alarm bells for Trevino. “The stones weren’t trash, they were there for a reason,” she emphasized, calling the city’s actions into question.
The heavy trash pickup was scheduled for Trevino’s property on September 16, leading her to believe that the city had mistakenly taken her stones during the collection. Since the stones were removed, Trevino has yet to see any vehicles encroach upon her property, but she remains anxious. “I dread every weekend that passes because it usually happens between Thursday and Monday,” she shared.
Despite reaching out to 3-1-1 on multiple occasions, Trevino has been met with silence, receiving only report numbers and no follow-up. “I would like for them to bring me some stones to put there to replenish the ones that were taken,” she stated, expressing her urgent need for protection.
Eyewitness News has contacted 3-1-1 for clarification and assistance on this matter. Additionally, Trevino was advised to file a claim with the city, though historical data shows that only 17% of such claims were paid out between 2022 and 2024, highlighting the challenges residents face when dealing with city services.
As Trevino awaits a response, her story underscores a broader issue regarding community safety and the responsibilities of municipal services. This incident raises critical questions about the handling of private property by city officials and the need for transparent communication with residents.
As this story develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and advocate for their rights. Trevino’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of protective measures for homeowners and the necessity of accountability from city services. For more updates, follow Eyewitness News on social media platforms.
