During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed 30-acre expansion of the Memphis Wrecking landfill, citing serious environmental and health concerns. Residents expressed fears about the potential contamination of groundwater and air quality, particularly due to the landfill's history of burning and the presence of hazardous materials.

Jalen Prater, director of the youth farm at Girls Inc. Memphis, presented alarming data from a 2019 Minnesota Pollution Control Agency report, which indicated that a significant number of construction and demolition landfills have contaminated groundwater. Prater warned that the proposed expansion could lead to similar issues in Memphis, affecting the local water supply.

Sarah Houston, executive director of Protect Our Aquifer, emphasized the importance of clean drinking water and highlighted the potential dangers of PFAS, or \"forever chemicals,\" which are known to be present in construction and demolition landfill leachate. Houston criticized the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) for not testing for these harmful substances, which could pose serious health risks to the community.

Community members, including Tara Miller and Peggy Boyd, shared personal experiences of health issues exacerbated by the landfill's operations, such as asthma and respiratory problems. They expressed frustration over the lack of communication from Memphis Wrecking and the perceived neglect of the Frasier community, which they feel is already burdened by environmental hazards.

Marvis Rogers, a long-time resident, pointed out that the landfill's operators have not engaged with local residents about the potential impacts of their operations. He called for accountability, noting that while the EPA does not require testing for certain toxins, the Clean Air Act mandates it.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from residents: they urge local officials to oppose the landfill expansion, advocating for better community development and environmental protections instead. The overwhelming sentiment reflects a community determined to safeguard their health and environment against further degradation.