Miami-Dade County officials are actively exploring alternative sites for a new waste management facility, aiming to address community concerns about health, safety, and traffic impacts. During a recent Board of County Commissioners meeting, a resolution was proposed to ensure that any potential site for the facility would not be located near populated areas, specifically excluding the cities of Doral, Medley, and the Northwest 58th Street area.

Commissioner discussions highlighted the need for a resource recovery facility that could manage approximately 50 to 60% of the county's waste, with the remainder still requiring landfill and composting solutions. The county is currently bound by 30-year contracts with waste management organizations, which include price guarantees for the first decade. However, the potential for fluctuating costs after this period remains a concern.

The meeting also addressed the financial implications of the proposed facility, with estimates ranging from $1.5 billion to $1.9 billion. These figures are classified as planning-level estimates, indicating a significant margin of error until more precise designs and bids are obtained. The county's bond engineer has confirmed that these estimates align with industry standards, but the final costs will depend on future negotiations and site selections.

As Miami-Dade County navigates these complex discussions, officials emphasize the importance of finding a solution that prioritizes the well-being of residents while effectively managing the county's waste. The next steps will involve further evaluations of potential sites and continued engagement with community stakeholders to ensure transparency and address any ongoing concerns.