Wake County officials are considering a significant amendment to the Shotwell Landfill's operations, focusing on the potential expansion of its construction and demolition debris capacity. Located south of Wendell, the landfill is one of several facilities in the area, including the Brownfield site and others in Apex.

The proposed amendment does not aim to alter the annual tonnage limits or the counties from which the landfill can accept waste. Instead, it seeks to amend the facility's permit with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) to allow for an additional 11.25 acres of waste disposal area within its existing property boundaries. This expansion is crucial for accommodating increased waste management needs while adhering to environmental regulations.

The process for this amendment involves a thorough review by Wake County's Board of Commissioners, followed by a public hearing, which took place during the meeting. If approved, the landfill will also need to secure a new special use permit from Wake County's Board of Adjustment and submit a substantial amendment request to the state.

This proposal is particularly noteworthy as it reflects ongoing efforts to manage waste effectively in the region, balancing environmental concerns with the growing demands of construction and demolition activities. The outcome of this public hearing and subsequent approvals will be pivotal in shaping Wake County's waste management strategy moving forward.