Leavenworth County residents oppose landfill expansion citing health and environmental concerns

A contentious proposal to expand a landfill in Leavenworth County has sparked heated debate among local residents and officials. During a recent planning commission meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to the special use permit (SUP) requested by the landfill operators, citing concerns over environmental impacts, traffic safety, and the overall quality of life in the area.

The landfill, which has been operational for decades, is seeking to extend its operations despite a history of issues, including illegal dumping and health hazards. Residents like Matthew Snyder and Kyle Smith expressed their frustrations, highlighting the negative effects of increased truck traffic and the persistent odors emanating from the site. Snyder emphasized that the landfill's expansion would not benefit the community, stating, "There are no benefits for the community for a landfill in this area."

Supporters of the landfill, including representatives from the operating company, argued that the facility is essential for waste management and could create jobs. They claimed that the landfill provides a necessary service, preventing illegal dumping and offering economic benefits. However, many residents countered these claims, insisting that the risks to public health and safety far outweigh any potential advantages.

Concerns were raised about the lack of community support for the expansion, with several residents pointing out that letters of support included in the proposal came from outside the immediate area. Sharon Wagner, a long-time resident, warned that the landfill's expansion would further degrade property values and quality of life, stating, "Nobody wants to live next to a dump."

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community is deeply divided on the issue. While some see the landfill as a necessary evil, many residents are adamant that its expansion poses unacceptable risks to their health and environment. The planning commission is now faced with the challenge of weighing these conflicting perspectives as they consider the future of the landfill and its impact on Leavenworth County.