Dooly County plans for landfill closure as state rules take effect; regional and Houston County options considered
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Summary
Facing Subtitle D closure requirements, Dooly County sought engineering services, considered a regional landfill authority and a contract with Houston County, and authorized equipment purchases and contingency planning for household waste disposal after July 1, 1998.
County officials warned the Board repeatedly in early 1998 that state Subtitle D regulations would require the county to close its Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) landfill to household waste by July 1, 1998 and comply with closure/post‑closure requirements.
Staff and consultants: Solid Waste Director Wayne Lamb reviewed closure requirements, cost estimates and options. The Board approved contracting Tribble & Richardson, Inc. and Geosciences, Inc. for engineering and geotechnical/environmental services to develop closure and post‑closure plans and to provide required compliance documentation.
Regional and interim disposal options: Commissioners discussed participation in the Middle Georgia Regional Solid Waste Management Authority (MGRSWMA) and a proposed interim contract with Houston County to accept Dooly’s household waste beginning July 1, 1998. Houston County offered a tipping fee in the $22–$23.50/ton range and indicated available capacity; the Board subsequently authorized entering a contract with Houston County (contract term initially through Dec. 31, 1999) and approved related intergovernmental coordination.
Operational response and equipment: Because hauling distances would increase, Solid Waste Director Lamb recommended and the Board approved the purchase of an additional rear‑load garbage truck and related equipment; the Board also authorized financing arrangements where necessary. Road Department staff were directed to plan for material movement and for landfill closure earthwork, coordinating with engineers to minimize interference with road projects.
Why it matters: The change forced by state regulation required Dooly County to identify alternate disposal arrangements or invest in expensive upgrades. The Board’s actions — engaging consultants, joining regional planning and negotiating an interim contract — were intended to maintain disposal capacity while the county completes closure obligations.
Next steps: County staff were directed to finalize contracts with MGRSWMA and/or Houston County, implement closure design and timelines with the hired engineers, and proceed with equipment acquisitions and any necessary financing approvals.