Juneau Assembly reviews waste management options as landfill closure looms

In a recent Assembly Committee of the Whole Worksession held on June 2, 2025, the Juneau City and Borough (CBJ) discussed critical options for future waste management strategies as the community faces the impending closure of its existing landfill. The meeting highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to waste disposal, emphasizing the importance of evaluating various scenarios to ensure sustainable and efficient waste management.

The discussions centered around three primary waste management scenarios: off-site shipment of waste, the construction of a new landfill, and the establishment of a waste-to-energy facility. Preliminary findings from a recent study ranked off-site shipment as the most favorable option, followed by the new landfill scenario. The waste-to-energy facility was ranked lowest due to high construction costs and operational inefficiencies related to Juneau's specific waste stream.

Key factors influencing these rankings included capital costs, implementation timelines, and the ability to meet waste diversion goals. The assembly acknowledged that while off-site shipment presents risks associated with reliance on private landfills, it may offer a more immediate solution compared to the lengthy regulatory processes associated with building a new landfill.

The meeting also underscored the necessity of constructing a transfer facility, regardless of the chosen waste management scenario. This facility would serve as a critical component in the waste management infrastructure, allowing for efficient handling of waste during the transition period before any new disposal facility is operational. The assembly was encouraged to consider various ownership and operational models to finance and manage this facility effectively.

In terms of next steps, the CBJ was urged to engage with shipping partners and haulers to better understand operational costs and to explore funding options for the proposed new landfill. Additionally, further studies are recommended to provide a more detailed analysis of the costs associated with each waste management option, particularly focusing on the potential financial impact on residents.

The assembly's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need for a strategic approach to waste management that balances community control, environmental sustainability, and economic feasibility. As the CBJ moves forward, the decisions made in the coming months will significantly shape Juneau's waste management landscape and its long-term sustainability goals.