Parkland shopping center proposes new dumpster compactor to address trash overflow issues

The Parkland Planning and Zoning meeting held on May 8, 2025, focused on a proposed site plan amendment for the Shops at Parkland, specifically addressing ongoing trash management issues stemming from the building's food and beverage tenants. The meeting began with a presentation outlining the current challenges related to trash overflow and code enforcement violations due to inadequate waste management facilities.

The applicant, represented by Liz Summerstein, detailed the proposal to install a new dumpster compactor at the shopping center, which is located at the northwest corner of State Road 7 and Hillsborough. The existing setup includes two dumpster enclosures, each containing a 4-yard recycling bin and a 4-yard trash bin, which have proven insufficient for the volume of waste generated by the five food-related tenants, including popular establishments like Jersey Mike's and MOD Pizza.

Currently, the site experiences significant trash overflow, leading to frequent pickups—up to 13 trips per week for both trash and recycling. The proposed compactor aims to reduce these pickups dramatically, potentially lowering trash collection from seven days a week to just one, while also addressing recycling needs.

The compactor will occupy one parking space, but the site will still meet its parking requirements with a total of 68 spaces available. The design includes an 8-foot masonry wall for screening, complemented by landscaping to enhance aesthetics and minimize odor concerns. The compactor will be locked to prevent unauthorized use, and discussions are ongoing regarding the timing of waste pickups to avoid peak traffic hours.

Several board members raised concerns about the compactor's location, potential odor issues, and the overall maintenance of the shopping center. Some expressed skepticism about the landlord's ability to manage the site effectively, citing long-standing cleanliness issues. The board discussed the need for stringent conditions of approval to ensure compliance with maintenance standards and to address any future violations.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of the compactor to alleviate current waste management problems, while also acknowledging the need for ongoing oversight to ensure that the solution is effectively implemented. The proposal will move forward for further consideration, with the aim of finalizing pickup schedules and maintenance protocols before the next commission meeting.