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Board approves $130,000 for additional landfill testing after questions about scope and DNR requirements
Summary
The board approved a $130,000 line of credit to pay for additional drilling and engineering for a landfill expansion feasibility study; county engineer said WDNR requested further data but did not guarantee approval.
The Vernon County Board voted to authorize a $130,000 non-revolving line of credit from the general fund to the Solid Waste Department to fund additional drilling, engineering and DNR filing fees related to the proposed landfill expansion.
Solid Waste & Recycling Director Sanborn presented the request. Several supervisors pressed staff on the purpose and risks of more testing. Supervisor Slack asked about well placement and long-term maintenance, saying it “feels like we are poking holes in the aquifer near our garbage site. Is this a potential contamination site?” Engineer Brian Kent of SEH, Inc., replied: “these wells are not within the footprint of the landfill site, nor will they be underneath the expansion area. Yes, any time you put a well into the aquifer you introduce the potential for surface contamination… These new wells are looking for groundwater elevation not groundwater quality.” Kent added that the WDNR had not guaranteed that additional testing would result in approval: the agency asked for more data to further confirm SEH's assumptions.
Because this was a budget amendment, a two-thirds vote was required. On roll call the resolution passed with 13 ayes, 2 nays, 1 abstention and 3 members absent; Supervisors Kilmer and Taylor voted no and Supervisor Stanek abstained.
The money will fund engineering, another test well and filing fees as requested by WDNR. County staff said WDNR would hold a public hearing once it issues a notice of completeness and that the department would take public comments at that stage.
