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County hears DNR-requested tests could add $175K–$180K to landfill expansion study
Summary
Consultant Brian Kent told the Vernon County Board the DNR issued a notice of incompleteness for the landfill expansion feasibility study and is asking for additional groundwater monitoring wells; the additional testing was estimated at roughly $175,000–$180,000 and could affect approval and the expansion size.
The Vernon County Board of Supervisors heard an update on a proposed landfill expansion and additional data the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is requesting. Brian Kent of S.E.H., Inc., the certifying firm on the feasibility study, said the DNR issued a notice of incompleteness and is asking for more groundwater monitoring wells to confirm site data.
"Yes this is more than typical, this is more than usual," Kent said, describing the DNR request as exceeding what consultants commonly see. He estimated the additional test wells would cost "approximately $175,000–180,000." Solid Waste & Recycling Director Stacie Sanborn told the Board that the county can cover that expense in the current budget and that, at current intake rates, the landfill has about three years of remaining airspace.
Supervisors questioned whether different assumptions about waste-volume growth would change approval or the allowed expansion size. Kent said using the DNR's lower growth-rate assumption (about 0.8% instead of 1.6%) would reduce projected volumes by about 15,000 cubic yards over 15 years and could lead to a smaller approved expansion. Board discussion also noted options if the county cannot complete expansion work within three years, including reducing intake or using other facilities temporarily.
No formal action was taken; the Board was informed of costs, timeline risks and funding options. The matter remains contingent on completing the requested DNR information and the county's decision whether to proceed with the additional testing.
