Benton County officials are taking significant steps to address critical issues surrounding the local landfill, which is currently operating well beyond its rated capacity. During the recent DSAC meeting, it was revealed that the landfill is designed to handle 2,400 tons of waste per day but is instead receiving between 5,000 and 6,000 tons daily. This overcapacity poses serious safety and operational challenges, prompting urgent discussions among committee members about potential regulatory changes.

Committee member Nancy Whitcomb highlighted the need for a reassessment of the landfill's zoning regulations, which have not been updated since 1982. The current zoning allows for a maximum of 82,000 tons per year, while actual intake has surged to approximately 1.5 million tons annually. Whitcomb proposed that the committee draft recommendations for the Planning Commission and the Board of Commissioners to tighten zoning regulations, which could help mitigate compliance issues and improve landfill management.

The committee also discussed the possibility of formally influencing the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to prioritize the review of the landfill's operational practices. This could lead to more effective oversight and ensure that the landfill operates within its designated limits.

As the committee prepares to gather more information and potentially draft recommendations, the urgency of the situation remains clear. The landfill's current operational practices not only threaten environmental safety but also raise concerns about the long-term viability of waste management in Benton County. The next steps will involve further discussions and the development of a comprehensive plan to address these pressing issues.