During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the approval process for a new transfer station located on a closed hazardous waste landfill in Pottstown. The transfer station has already received siting approval, which was granted some time ago, allowing for community input at that stage. Member Williams highlighted that the agreement includes reduced rates for residents in unincorporated Peoria County, potentially lowering their monthly bills by approximately $30.

However, concerns were raised regarding the risks associated with delaying the construction of Landfill 3. Member Renaud expressed discomfort with the current agreement, particularly after a provision he proposed to mitigate risks was removed from the latest contract version. This provision would have allowed for the transfer of the construction permit back to the city-county landfill committee under certain triggering events, ensuring that the project could proceed without unnecessary delays.

Legal counsel reassured members that the agreement now includes a corporate guarantee from GFL, the parent company, to construct Landfill 3 by 2035, which adds a layer of security compared to previous contracts. Additionally, the permit for the landfill will be held in escrow, allowing for its transfer if necessary.

Despite these safeguards, some members, including Member Daley, voiced their concerns about the risks involved and indicated they could not support the agreement in its current form. The city council is expected to review the proposal in two weeks, with discussions ongoing about potential amendments to address the concerns raised by committee members. The meeting underscored the complexities of balancing community interests, regulatory requirements, and the need for timely waste management solutions.