DSAC explores cameras, patrols and security to improve Coffin Butte fire detection during off hours

David Hackleman, a DSAC member who has been coordinating with Republic Services and Adair Rural Fire Department, briefed the committee on work to improve fire detection and response at the Coffin Butte landfill.

Hackleman told the committee the primary objective is to ensure the local fire agency has the best opportunity to detect and suppress any fire before it propagates beyond the site, especially during periods when the landfill is not staffed. "I think that action should be performed, during especially during times when the landfill is not staffed," he said, noting that Adair Rural Fire Department can provide local guidance about high‑risk periods.

The discussion outlined two broad approaches: periodic human observation ("eyes on the ground") and remote monitoring using cameras or infrared systems. Hackleman and others noted tradeoffs between reliability, cost and maintenance. Hackleman said infrared cameras can detect intense heat signatures and alert responders but cautioned against overly complex systems that require excessive upkeep.

Republic Services and other participants emphasized a dual benefit to increasing on‑site observation: fire detection and site security. A Republic representative told the committee that trespassing incidents had occurred during off hours and that increased observation could address both safety and security concerns: "we're looking at security, this can be twofold security and basically observing the site driving around, not only us, but PRC just going back and forth. So that's another option that we're looking into right now as well."

County staff and committee members discussed next steps. Deirdre (committee member) said: "I think that it would be beneficial to the commissioners to know that we are actively, seeking improved ways to ensure that there's no fire issues." Committee members agreed a short written update to the board of county commissioners would be useful; Hackleman said he would draft a memo and expected the team to review it before submission. The group also agreed to provide a progress update at the next DSAC meeting.

Clarifying details from the discussion: - Objectives: improve detection when site is unstaffed; prioritize preventing propagation beyond landfill boundaries; coordinate with Adair Rural Fire Department on high‑risk times. - Options considered: scheduled human patrols during high‑risk periods; basic camera monitoring; forward‑looking infrared cameras; more complex autonomous detection and suppression systems (deemed likely cost‑prohibitive for now). - Ancillary benefit: increased observation can deter trespassing and unlawful access to the PRC and landfill areas. - Timeline: committee members expected internal discussions about short‑term measures over the coming months; Hackleman committed to provide an update at the next monthly DSAC meeting.

Ending: The committee agreed to continue exploring a mix of short‑term (patrols/boots on the ground) and medium‑term (camera/infrared monitoring) options and to brief county commissioners. Hackleman will prepare a draft update for the commissioners and provide a progress report to DSAC at the next meeting.