Senate debates Cedar Valley construction-and-demolition landfill; members vote to circle resolution

Senators opened floor consideration of House Concurrent Resolution 6 on Feb. 28, 2001. The resolution seeks legislative approval for a Class 5 nonhazardous construction-and-demolition waste disposal facility in Cedar Valley proposed by Bayer Construction Company, after the applicant completed Department of Environmental Quality permitting and local-government steps.

Sponsor presentation and project scope: Senator Valentine summarized the procedural steps the applicant completed, emphasizing the site is for construction-and-demolition debris (cement, lumber, sheetrock, rebar) and is not designed for municipal, industrial, hazardous or radioactive wastes. He said DEQ had authorized the facility subject to final legislative approval.

Main concerns raised: Senators questioned whether granting this approval would create monopoly conditions for waste disposal, whether the resolution should instead be considered through an interim study or task force to ensure broader input, and whether a Class 5 permit could be modified in the future to accept other waste classes. Senator Demetrij referenced experience with a permitted landfill in East Carbon and warned of long-term consequences and local impacts. Supporters, including Senator Jenkins, said the proposed facility differs from large municipal landfills and would increase competition and local economic diversity.

Outcome: After exchange and procedural queries about legal effect and timing, the Senate adopted a motion to “circle” the resolution for further study, delaying final legislative approval pending additional review and counsel.

Next steps: The circle motion pauses floor action and gives senators time to request legal counsel opinions and gather local and technical input about siting, permit scope and potential future permit changes.