Craig Harfoot advocates for innovative landfill use in Cobb County

In a recent Cobb County Board of Commissioners meeting, discussions turned to the management of closed landfills and the potential for innovative recycling solutions. Craig Harfoot, a local resident, voiced his concerns about the county's approach to waste management, particularly regarding a $200,000 consulting fee that he found questionable.

Harfoot highlighted the historical context of landfills, noting that the Westview Cemetery was once a landfill that has since been transformed into a burial ground. He emphasized the importance of rethinking how closed landfills can be repurposed, suggesting that the County Farm Road site could be utilized for recycling organic waste, such as leaves and yard debris. This, he argued, could lead to the production of nutrient-rich soil, benefiting the community.

Drawing from his experiences in Florida, Harfoot illustrated how landfills can be transformed into usable land, even creating mountains from waste. He also proposed the idea of harnessing methane gas from landfills to generate energy, potentially providing a sustainable power source for county operations.

As the meeting progressed, the chairwoman reminded attendees of the public comment rules, emphasizing the importance of respectful discourse. The session concluded without immediate questions from the commissioners, leaving Harfoot's suggestions hanging in the air, a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in waste management for Cobb County.

The meeting underscored a growing awareness of environmental issues and the need for innovative solutions in local governance, as residents and officials alike consider the future of waste management in their community.