Huntington Council discusses $30M landfill closure and budget constraints

The City of Huntington Council held a budget session on March 1, 2025, focusing on critical financial issues, including the closure of the city landfill and adjustments to various city programs. The meeting highlighted the significant financial burden associated with the landfill closure, estimated to cost between $20 million and $30 million. Council members expressed concerns about the long-term implications of delaying action on this issue, noting that costs could have been lower if addressed earlier.

Discussion also centered on the allocation of federal COVID-19 relief funds, specifically the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money. Some council members questioned why these funds were not directed towards the landfill closure, with officials explaining that the funds had specific eligibility criteria that may not have included such projects. The mayor emphasized the importance of transparency in budget allocations and the need to prioritize public safety and infrastructure.

In addition to landfill concerns, the council reviewed the budget for public works, which included flat funding for various departments. The budget for street paving was discussed, with officials assuring that efforts would continue to fill potholes and maintain roads despite challenges with contracting and late invoicing from the state.

The meeting also addressed contributions to external organizations, with a notable reduction in available funds due to the expiration of one-time federal funding. The mayor committed to ensuring that contributions would be allocated transparently and in alignment with the city’s priorities.

Overall, the session underscored the city’s financial challenges and the need for strategic planning to address pressing infrastructure issues while maintaining transparency and accountability in budget management. The council will continue to explore financing options for the landfill closure and other critical projects in future meetings.