Hanover County residents advocate for Ashcake Landfill expansion amid growing waste concerns

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 23, 2025, centered around a contentious proposal to expand the Ashcake Road Landfill, drawing significant public interest and debate. The meeting highlighted the landfill's critical role in managing construction and demolition debris, particularly as Hanover County experiences rapid growth and increased construction activity.

Supporters of the landfill expansion, including local business owners and contractors, emphasized the facility's importance for the region's waste management needs. They argued that the landfill is essential not only for Hanover County but also for the broader Metro Richmond area, which is facing a shortage of landfill space. Many speakers noted that losing the Ashcake facility would lead to increased costs and logistical challenges, as waste would need to be transported to more distant landfills, resulting in higher fuel consumption and potential safety hazards on local roads.

Michael Flagg, a representative with engineering expertise, addressed concerns about groundwater contamination, asserting that the landfill's operations are closely monitored and that the facility is well-managed. He reassured residents that the landfill's expansion would not negatively impact local groundwater, countering fears expressed by some community members.

However, opposition to the expansion was also vocal, particularly from residents of the nearby Brown Grove community. Critics raised concerns about environmental justice, citing historical neglect of their community in favor of industrial development. They pointed to past incidents of contamination and mismanagement at the landfill, arguing that expanding its capacity would exacerbate existing environmental issues and disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

The meeting underscored a broader tension between economic development and environmental protection, with supporters advocating for the landfill as a necessary service for the county's growth, while opponents called for greater accountability and consideration of community health and safety. As the board deliberates on the proposal, the discussions reflect ongoing challenges in balancing the needs of a growing population with the imperative to protect the environment and ensure equitable treatment for all residents.

The board's decision on the landfill expansion will likely have significant implications for waste management practices in Hanover County and the surrounding region, as well as for the communities directly impacted by the landfill's operations.