I read with great interest the October 30 article in the News-Democrat & Leader that described the proposal by Waste Management to amend the Host Agreement to increase tonnage limits and to completely fill the landfill by 2015. The article indicated that this would be tabled until November 24 to allow time to seek citizens’ input. As a resident of Logan County and a home owner in the Coopertown Road area, the following are my views and comments on this matter. I also encourage other residents of the area to present their feedback to the Court.

I’m sure that if the magistrates were polled, both individually and collectively, each would profess support for “green” initiatives to protect our environment. Unfortunately, it is my opinion, after closely following the previous decisions of the Fiscal Court in matters concerning the landfill that the term “green” relates more to monetary considerations than to the protection of our environment.

In nearly all the cases where the landfill operator proposed increases to tonnage limits outlined in the Host Agreements or requested expansions to the site, the Fiscal Court agreed to these changes with little regard to the continuing concerns raised by the residents of the Coopertown Road area. These problems include: odor, noise, excessive truck traffic, mud, dirt, debris, dust, and litter. Other issues include potential contamination of water supplies and the unknown long term health and environmental impact on residents and the area. All have had an adverse effect on the quality of life of residents in the area.

In the current matter before the Court, the enticement of more money and more revenue is again being offered by Waste Management to expand tonnage rates beyond current limits. This is an obvious tactic to maximize their profits at the current site before lease expiration. The landfill was well aware of the terms of its lease and its potential for not being renewed. It is also aware of the tonnage limit restrictions in the agreements.

I urge the Court to reject this proposal and adhere to the limits outlined in the current Host Agreement. Agreeing to an accelerated and increased tonnage schedule to fill the landfill to capacity by 2015 will greatly increase the already existing issues for residents on Coopertown Road and other areas near the landfill. Quality of life will obviously be affected. These residents and landowners also have to worry about the long term health and environmental implications of millions of tons of waste and refuse buried in our county from numerous external sources. These citizens will be here long after Waste Management vacates this site and moves to another location in 2015.

Do the right thing for the Logan County and its residents and demonstrate that you place their health, well-being, and quality of life at the top of your priorities. Vote to reject Waste Management’s proposal, and place your emphasis on the right “green.”