The District of Hope is currently looking for public feedback on future landfill options.
Over the last few years, the municipality has taken a number of steps to improve the landfill to meet Ministry of Environment requirements. However, addressing ongoing issues can be costly which is why an efficiency review was undertaken to identify options for long-term disposal solutions.
“These are expensive decisions that will impact our community and that’s why we need your input,” said Mayor Susan Johnston. “We need to ensure that we are making the best decisions on where to take our garbage in the future. There are many factors to consider including cost, convenience, longevity, the environment and what works best for district taxpayers.”
As a result of the efficiency review, four different options are being considered:
• Landfill operated to capacity until 2022, then waste hauled to another landfill
• Landfill operated to capacity until 2022 with reduced days of operation, then waste hauled to another landfill
• Landfill closed early in 2014, then waste hauled to another landfill
• Landfilling is accelerated using non-hazardous waste form Norampac Recycled Fibre Mill to reach capacity sooner in 2013. Revenue from this waste is used to pay for the site closure and waste then hauled to another landfill.
Regardless of which option is pursued, steps will need to be taken to improve the leachate collection system in order to protect Shadbolt Creek. In addition, a transfer station will be required — where incoming waste will be deposited in large bins or B-Train trailers and transported to a larger landfill that has long-term disposal capacity.
“The timing of this project is critical,” said Johnston. “Now that we have gathered information on possible options, the environmental impacts and the related costs, we can make a decision about the future of our waste. But before we proceed with making decisions about any major upgrades we need to hear from our community on the options as well as any other ideas people may have.”
The district is hosting an open house on Aug. 27, from 5-7 p.m., in council chambers to provide residents more information about the options and costs. Feedback will be accepted until Sept. 4.