In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the ongoing removal of old landfill material from a site on North 36th Street in Quincy. The project, which involves transporting approximately 500 dump loads of material to the La Grange landfill, has already seen 75 loads removed. However, the financial implications of this operation have sparked significant debate, with estimates suggesting a potential waste of around $550,000 in just one week.
The discussion highlighted the costs associated with the landfill removal, including transportation fees, fuel expenses, and labor costs for city workers. The speaker expressed frustration over the abrupt halt of the removal process, questioning the reasons behind the cessation and raising alarms about environmental and public health concerns.
Particularly alarming were claims regarding potential contamination from the landfill, which has been closed since 1973. The speaker mentioned having collected water and soil samples and contacted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for further investigation. They expressed concern that sewage seepage from the landfill could be affecting local water sources, potentially impacting the health of residents, including those at a nearby veterans' home.
The meeting underscored the need for transparency and accountability in managing the landfill site, as well as the importance of addressing public health risks associated with long-standing environmental issues. The speaker's call for action reflects a growing urgency among community members to ensure the safety and well-being of Quincy residents.