(Tillamook, OR) — On January 8, 2025, the Tillamook City Police Department, alongside a coalition of community partners, participated in a major clean-up operation at an illegal dump site located on North Main Street between Nectar and the Soccer Field. The property, owned by the City of Tillamook, but partially outside city limits, had become a hazardous waste zone threatening both environmental and public health.
The operation was spearheaded by Tillamook City Code Enforcement Officer Kenny Moreland and Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Troy Jackson, with vital support from community organizations and government agencies. In preparation for the clean-up, CEO Moreland and Sgt. Jackson began outreach on December 9, 2024, engaging with individuals residing on the property. With assistance from CARE and ongoing weekly meetings, they successfully helped these individuals transition to more stable housing arrangements.
The clean-up addressed significant waste accumulation, including shopping carts, garbage, human and animal feces, scrap metal, bicycles and parts, pallets, and other debris. Approximately 15 tons of trash and hazardous materials were removed from the site. The cleanup also included the removal of three abandoned vehicles from the property behind the old Chevy lot.
“Our collective efforts to address illegal dump sites have been guided by a commitment to both environmental stewardship and compassion for those impacted,” said Tillamook Police Chief Nick Troxel. “By partnering with the City of Tillamook Public Works, the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Tillamook County Public Works, and dedicated community organizations, we’ve approached this challenge with empathy. This collaborative approach ensures a sustainable solution while fostering dignity and support for all members of our community”.
In response to the site’s hazardous condition, the City of Tillamook closed the property, safeguarding public health, the environment and allowing the habitat restoration process to begin.
AFTER: 
The city extends its deepest gratitude to the following organizations for their contributions to this effort: Tillamook Police Department, Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Tillamook City Public Works, Tillamook County Public Works, CARE, Veterans Repair Solutions, Averill’s Recycling, Burdens, City Sanitary, Tillamook County Solid Waste, and the Tillamook Feed Store.
If you are interested in assisting with clean-up costs you are encouraged to donate to the Friends of Tillamook Police (friendsoftillamookpolice.org) the department’s non-profit entity.
The City of Tillamook remains committed to ongoing efforts to maintain a clean, safe, and supportive environment for all residents.