Atlantic County Utilities Authority Chairman Matt Dinolfo updated the Egg Harbor Township Committee on regional solid‑waste and wastewater authority operations, capacity planning and projects aimed at stabilizing county rates.

What was reported: Dinolfo said the authority is permitted through 2029 under current configurations and has developed plans to extend landfill airspace to about 2040 through a combination of limited height increases and a small footprint expansion. He told the committee the authority’s 2026 budget projects a modest 2% rate increase and that the authority’s rates remain among the lowest in the state.

Capital projects and cost context: Dinolfo said the authority is evaluating an expansion project estimated at about $25,000,000 and reviewed prior phase costs. He also described a $60,000,000 private‑investment renewable natural gas (RNG) project that upgrades landfill gas to pipeline quality and injects it to produce revenue and reduce emissions. The project is expected to generate roughly $1.3 million a year for the authority and cut flare emissions by about 95%, he said.

Recycling outreach and user guidance: ACUA staff emphasized recycling education and practical guidance (e.g., keep pizza boxes free of grease, avoid placing recycling in plastic bags) and noted the authority’s outreach to schools and municipalities to raise recycling rates and reduce tip‑fee exposure.

Why it matters locally: Dinolfo said premature loss of the landfill could cost Atlantic County roughly $25 million and raise costs to all municipalities, including Egg Harbor Township, through higher collection and tip fees. He noted ongoing litigation with nearby residents that will carry an annual legal cost of about $1.5 million while the process proceeds.

Ending: The committee thanked ACUA for the briefing and noted the authority will continue outreach and that residents and local officials may schedule tours of ACUA facilities.