Republic Services seeks 46-acre expansion of Coffin Butte landfill to extend capacity

The Benton County, Arkansas government meeting held on April 15, 2025, focused on the operations and expansion plans of the Coffin Butte landfill, managed by Republic Services. The meeting began with an overview of the landfill's current capacity and environmental initiatives, emphasizing the company's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

The landfill currently manages approximately 178 acres, with 40 acres designated as wetlands and 45 acres permanently capped. Republic Services has invested significantly in its gas collection system, boasting three gas wells per acre—three times the industry standard. This system generates enough energy to power around 4,000 homes annually. Additionally, the landfill diverts about 40,000 tons of yard debris each year for composting, producing products for local farmers and retailers.

A key agenda item was the proposed expansion of the landfill. Republic Services is seeking a 50% smaller expansion than previously requested in 2021, which would extend the landfill's operational life by six years. The company assured the community that Coffin Butte Road would remain open, with plans for improvements including a turn lane and bike lanes to address traffic concerns. The expansion aims to enhance transparency and communication with the community while ensuring reliable waste disposal capacity.

The meeting also addressed environmental monitoring and compliance. Republic Services reported no violations from state and federal inspections in the previous year. Groundwater monitoring is conducted semi-annually, with results consistently below drinking water standards. The company is also actively engaged in addressing concerns related to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), acknowledging that while they receive waste containing these chemicals, they do not generate them.

Safety measures for employees were discussed, including recent OSHA inspections that identified minor issues, which were promptly resolved. The company is currently conducting air quality testing to ensure the safety of its workforce.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted Republic Services' ongoing efforts to balance landfill operations with environmental stewardship and community concerns. The proposed expansion, if approved, is expected to provide additional capacity while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and safety. The next steps involve further community engagement and regulatory processes as the company moves forward with its plans.