The state Department of Health has cited Ken’s Towing Service Inc. for vehicle salvage and solid waste inspection violations.
The state Department of Health has cited Ken’s Towing Service Inc. for vehicle salvage and solid waste inspection violations.
The department said the violations occurred at 55 Kukila Street in Hilo, and involved the operation of an unpermitted vehicle salvage facility and the obstruction of a DOH inspection.
Ken’s Towing Service Inc. was previously operating under a solid waste management permit that expired in February 2012. DOH conducted an inspection of the facility on March 13, 2013, and found approximately 40 junk vehicles, at least 5 cubic yards of scrap metal, at least 100 scrap tires, and approximately three pallets of shrink wrapped lead acid batteries, the state said.
The state said the company submitted a permit application in June 2013, but the department was unable to issue the permit because the facility neglected to finish the permit process and the application remains incomplete. On Oct. 20, 2014, DOH attempted an inspection of the facility and was denied entry.
Based on these findings and events, DOH has imposed a penalty of $7,500, and ordered the facility to remove all solid waste and close the unpermitted salvage operation. Ken’s Towing Service Inc. may request a hearing to contest the allegations or order, the state said.