During a recent meeting of the Miami-Dade County Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology Committee, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed construction of an incinerator near the City of Miramar. Local officials and community members voiced their strong opposition, citing serious public health risks associated with incineration.

Kelvin Baker, Deputy City Manager of Miramar, highlighted the potential dangers of toxic pollutants released by incinerators, specifically mentioning PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which can contaminate air, water, and food supplies. He emphasized that if the facility is deemed unsafe for other areas in Miami-Dade County, it should not be located in Miramar either. Baker's remarks reflect a growing unease among residents about the health implications of such facilities in their neighborhoods.

Vice Mayor Joy Smith of Westpark echoed these sentiments, urging the committee to reconsider the incinerator's location. She pointed out that the health risks associated with incineration, including increased rates of asthma and cancer, do not respect city boundaries. "What affects Miramar affects Westpark," she stated, calling for solidarity among neighboring communities.

Devon Campbell, a representative from Miramar, further stressed the environmental and health threats posed by incineration, urging the committee to consider the broader implications for both Miami-Dade and Broward counties. He noted that the decision made by the committee would impact many constituents and their well-being.

The meeting also featured input from environmental advocates, including representatives from the Sierra Club, who argued against incineration altogether. They proposed a shift towards zero waste solutions, emphasizing that incineration disproportionately affects marginalized communities.

In addition to the incinerator discussions, the committee addressed various other agenda items, including waste management strategies. However, the overwhelming focus remained on the health and environmental concerns surrounding the proposed incinerator.

As the committee deliberates on these pressing issues, the voices of local leaders and residents underscore a collective demand for safer, healthier alternatives to waste management that prioritize community well-being. The outcome of this meeting could significantly shape the future of waste management practices in Miami-Dade County, reflecting the community's commitment to protecting public health and the environment.