Whistleblower Orton criticizes Republic Services and county oversight at Albany landfill meeting

In a tense and revealing moment at the Benton County government meeting, Robert Orton, a whistleblower from Coffin Butte Landfill, passionately addressed the committee regarding the proposed expansion of the landfill operated by Republic Services. Orton, who has firsthand experience with the company’s practices, expressed deep concerns about environmental safety and corporate accountability.

As he stood before the committee, Orton recounted his struggles as an employee trying to expose what he described as Republic Services' deceptive practices. He criticized the company for its lack of transparency and accountability, stating, “The fact that they are not forthcoming about anything... is stunning.” His remarks painted a picture of a corporation more focused on profit than on the well-being of the community and the environment.

Orton highlighted a troubling incident where Republic Services received a mere $700 fine from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) despite serious allegations of misconduct. He argued that the cost of addressing the issues raised by employees would have far exceeded the fine, suggesting that the company views compliance as a financial calculation rather than a moral obligation. “It is a math problem for Republic,” he asserted, emphasizing their prioritization of profit over environmental responsibility.

The whistleblower urged the committee to consider the implications of their decisions, warning against the allure of the financial benefits that come with the landfill's expansion. “A million dollars coming in... certainly, the environment, the people... has got to be worth that million dollars,” he implored, calling for a commitment to the community's health over monetary gain.

Despite Orton's emotional appeal, the committee chair reminded him to maintain a respectful tone, which led to a heated exchange about the importance of addressing community concerns. Orton, undeterred, continued to stress the need for the committee to look beyond the surface of Republic Services’ assurances and to investigate the reality of conditions at the landfill.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the discussions surrounding the Coffin Butte Landfill expansion are not just about waste management; they touch on broader themes of corporate ethics, environmental stewardship, and community health. Orton’s testimony serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of prioritizing profit over the environment, leaving the committee and the community to grapple with the weight of their decisions moving forward.