T
OPEKA, Kan. - Residents at The Village at Old Town are fed up with piles of trash that remain after the city-imposed deadline passed for Eucalyptus Real Estate to clear them. Rachel Herold, an Army veteran and tenant, expressed frustration over the situation, saying it's unfair that they're being left to deal with the issue.

    Herold relies on a disability pension to make ends meet, making it difficult to find affordable apartments. She pays rent that includes utilities, including trash service, which hasn't been provided. The piles of wet garbage are not only an eyesore but also pose health risks, especially for residents without adequate health insurance.

    As a veteran who receives sensitive information in the mail, Herold is concerned about her personal data being compromised if it's exposed to the elements. She feels that Eucalyptus Real Estate owner Lew McGinnis is taking advantage of his tenants because he knows they have limited resources and can't afford to leave their homes.

    The City of Topeka has issued citations to 34 Eucalyptus properties, giving them 10 days to clean up. Inspectors will visit the properties over the next two days, and administrative warrants may be issued for those not in compliance.