In a recent public meeting of the Egg Harbor Township Committee, officials gathered to discuss pressing issues surrounding waste management and landfill capacity, drawing attention to the community's recycling efforts and the ongoing challenges of odor control.

As the meeting unfolded, one committee member shared personal observations from their neighborhood, noting an increase in recycling bins but expressing concerns about improper disposal practices. This anecdote highlighted the need for better public education on recycling, emphasizing that some residents may be using recycling bins for trash due to lack of space in their garbage cans.

The conversation quickly shifted to landfill capacity, a critical topic for the township. Officials revealed that without strategic changes made over the years, the landfill would have reached its capacity a decade ago. Recent assessments indicate that with the help of a hired consultant, the township could extend its landfill capacity by an additional eight years, on top of the existing five years already permitted. This extension is crucial for managing waste disposal costs, which remain the lowest in the state, benefiting local taxpayers.

The committee also addressed the need to review collection contracts, which have not kept pace with the township's growth from 9,600 homes in 1999 to over 14,000 today. Officials acknowledged that inflation and rising costs have strained these contracts, prompting a reevaluation to ensure sustainability.

Another significant point of discussion was the ongoing efforts to mitigate odors emanating from the landfill. Last year, the township faced numerous odor complaints, prompting a series of infrastructure improvements aimed at capturing landfill gas more effectively. With the installation of new wells and piping, officials reported a noticeable reduction in odor complaints, although they acknowledged that complete elimination of odors is unlikely.

The meeting concluded with a focus on future initiatives, including a renewable natural gas project expected to generate significant revenue and reduce operational costs. This project, set to come online in August 2025, is part of a broader strategy to enhance waste management practices while keeping costs manageable for residents.

As Egg Harbor Township navigates these complex issues, the commitment to improving waste management and recycling efforts remains a priority, ensuring that the community can continue to thrive in a sustainable manner.