The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has expressed their awareness of the challenges facing the landfill and is committed to collaborating with us to find solutions. The current action items in progress include:
- The DNR is working closely with the city on several approaches to maximize capacity of the existing active area of the landfill.
- A temporary horizontal expansion is under consideration for DNR approval, which would allow for the addition of waste around the sides of the current vertical space. DNR is aiming to provide a response by February 28.
- The city is taking the necessary steps to secure DNR's approval for the opening of Cell 8.
We appreciate DNR’s partnership and support as we work through these issues together.
The City Council is asking our waste haulers, including the city of St Joseph, to voluntarily reduce tonnage by 30% effective February 1. This is critical to keep the landfill operational in the short term until an answer comes from DNR on the horizontal and vertical expansions and completion of cell 8. Additional measures could be necessary if our tonnage is not reduced.
Rates over the past twenty years at the landfill have increased by only two dollars. This is not consistent with the cost of living increases on any other utility or expense. The recently passed tiered rate increase is the first step to addressing the long-term sustainability of the landfill.
There has been much speculation about operations at the landfill. The landfill is required to operate under DNR regulations that mandate strict compliance with operational standards. Staff are tasked with maintaining and adhering to all DNR regulations.
Mayor John Josendale indicates that we are at a crossroad with the landfill, and it is imperative that everyone is a part of the solution. He states, “We all need to work together to address both the immediate and the long-term challenges. This is a tough issue we are faced with, and this community comes together every time to resolve the tough issues. I am extremely appreciative of both the task force and the community’s input on this, and the due diligence of staff. Working together constructively, we will find the necessary solutions for the long-term sustainability of the landfill.”