The Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners convened on January 28, 2025, for a Committee of the Whole meeting focused on waste management solutions, particularly the ongoing debate between landfill and incineration options. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the accuracy of information available to the commissioners, which is crucial for effective legislative decision-making.

Senator Garcia opened the discussion by expressing frustration over the lack of clear and direct answers to questions posed during previous meetings. He emphasized the importance of having reliable data to inform decisions that affect constituents. The senator raised concerns about the direction of government leadership in addressing waste management issues, questioning how to communicate these challenges to the public.

The conversation shifted to the financial implications of waste management strategies. Garcia inquired about the cost comparisons between landfill and incineration, specifically asking for the cost per ton associated with each option. The director responded with planning-level estimates for waste-to-energy facilities, indicating a potential investment of approximately $2 billion. However, he noted that these figures are not definitive due to the inherent risks and uncertainties involved in such projects.

The director provided a concrete figure for landfill costs, stating that the contracted space costs $74 per ton. In contrast, the costs associated with the incineration option remain uncertain, as they depend on various factors that have yet to be fully assessed. Despite the complexities, Garcia suggested that landfill costs would likely increase over time due to variable expenses, making incineration a potentially more viable long-term solution.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Miami-Dade County in addressing waste management, with commissioners calling for clearer information and more decisive action. As discussions continue, the board aims to find a sustainable solution that balances environmental concerns with fiscal responsibility. Further deliberations and follow-up actions are expected in upcoming meetings as the county seeks to resolve these pressing issues.