Lucas County plans new material recovery facility on old landfill site

The Board of County Commissioners in Lucas County, Ohio, convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding waste management and recycling initiatives. A key focus of the meeting was the proposed establishment of a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) within the county, aimed at enhancing recycling efforts and managing increasing waste volumes.

The discussion highlighted the progress made toward the MRF, which is planned to be constructed on a site that is currently undergoing remediation from an old landfill. The county has successfully secured $12 million in grants to support this project, which is seen as a crucial investment for local property owners. The facility is expected to not only sort and process recyclables but also sell them directly to the market, thereby improving the county's recycling capabilities.

Commissioners noted that while capital and operational costs have risen since the project's inception, they remain committed to pursuing additional grants to fund the facility. They emphasized the importance of conducting annual financial reviews to ensure the sustainability of the MRF and its associated programs.

The meeting also addressed the need for correct recycling practices, moving away from "wishful" or "hopeful" recycling methods. Commissioners urged residents to be diligent in their recycling efforts, advising that if there is any doubt about an item's recyclability, it should be discarded rather than incorrectly recycled.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving waste management through the development of the MRF, which is anticipated to play a vital role in enhancing recycling efforts and benefiting the community in the long term. Further updates on the project's progress and financial assessments are expected in future meetings.