Seneca County health officials raise concerns over landfill expansion and health safety

The Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee convened on April 1, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding local landfills and their environmental impacts. The meeting featured discussions on health concerns related to landfill operations, particularly in Seneca County, where residents have raised alarms about the management of hazardous materials.

The session began with a review of community sentiments regarding landfill expansions. A witness expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and communication from landfill operators, noting that residents in nearby counties were largely unaware of the ongoing issues due to the distance from the landfill site. This sentiment was echoed by committee members who questioned the adequacy of public awareness and involvement in decision-making processes.

Health concerns were a significant focus, particularly regarding the handling of PCB-contaminated soil. A chiropractor and acupuncturist testified about the potential health risks posed by leachate and other hazardous materials, emphasizing that any level of PCB is harmful. The witness highlighted past incidents where the landfill had imported contaminated soil, raising alarms about the safety of the landfill's operations and the oversight provided by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The committee also discussed the history of landfill capacity and expansions. It was noted that the landfill had previously claimed it would reach capacity by 2021, yet continued to receive approvals for expansion. This pattern raised concerns about regulatory compliance and the effectiveness of oversight by the EPA, which has been criticized for consistently siding with landfill operators during public hearings.

Vice Chairman Kaler inquired about the potential for local governance to exert more control over landfill operations. The discussion revealed that while Seneca County has made strides in restructuring its health department to enhance oversight, there remains a need for additional resources and personnel to conduct thorough inspections and testing.

Julie Richards, representing the Seneca County General Health District, also addressed the committee, indicating that her colleague was occupied with a leachate spill incident. She expressed the importance of ongoing monitoring and problem-solving efforts related to landfill operations.

The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution but underscored the community's ongoing concerns regarding landfill management and the need for improved oversight and communication between residents, local authorities, and state agencies. The committee's discussions will likely inform future legislative actions aimed at addressing these critical environmental and health issues.