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Jefferson County approves landfill operation plan recertification amid concern over lining costs
Summary
The county approved recertification of the landfill operating plan after staff described a new public‑notice requirement, technical limits on cell depth, and lining cost estimates of roughly $100,000 per quarter‑acre (total lining could exceed $3 million).
The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners approved the landfill operating plan recertification after a presentation from Solid Waste staff and a short discussion about technical limits and cost implications.
Brandy Ward (Solid Waste) told the board that the state health department now requires a 20–28 day public notice for recertification. Staff explained constraints on cell excavation (cells can be dug to about 20 feet with up to 5 feet of cover in the center) and discussed the expense of installing a landfill liner. Commissioners and staff estimated lining costs at about $100,000 per quarter‑acre and noted a full lining for the cell could run into the low‑millions; one participant estimated the liner alone could cost “$3,000,000.” Commissioners also discussed options for onsite tire shredding and potential partners to reduce hauling costs.
Unidentified Speaker (S2) moved to approve the landfill operating plan recertification; the motion was seconded and approved by roll‑call vote.
Why it matters: The landfill operating plan governs operational limits, environmental protections and public notice requirements. The discussion highlighted significant capital cost implications if the county were to fully line cells and the importance of accurate public notices for state recertification.
Next steps: IT/solid‑waste staff will file the public notice in the paper as required and proceed with the recertification paperwork. Commissioners indicated they will coordinate follow‑up on options to manage tire waste and potential capital planning if lining becomes necessary.
