Dennis James, a resident who lives near the landfill route, told commissioners July 16 he has developed a plan to relocate most truck traffic away from the current road to the landfill and asked the board to support convening stakeholders to study the idea. "The issue is the road to the landfill," Dennis said. "I do believe that's a workable plan to completely change the road and make it, I'd say, an 80% dedicated to the landfill road and move it completely." He urged a workshop including landowners, ODOT and county staff and said he has spoken to some landowners who would consider negotiations.
Public Works Director Arthur Smith confirmed the county and ODOT have recently reviewed the site and that several technical, ownership and funding hurdles remain. Arthur told the board an on‑site alternate route "seemed to be acknowledged that a lot of people... the alternate route, while nebulous, seemed to be more palatable," but warned the scale would be large. "You're talking about a $25,000,000 bill," he said, pointing to environmental, land acquisition and engineering costs.
Commissioners and staff discussed next steps. Arthur said he can re‑engage ODOT once state staffing settles and recommended bringing together key players — the county, ODOT, landfill operator and affected landowners — to gauge whether there is agreement in principle. Chair Heggie and Commissioner Phil said a plan and project definition are necessary to pursue funding opportunities and legislative advocacy.
No formal action was taken. The board directed staff to consider a stakeholder workshop to clarify feasibility and whether affected private parties and the landfill operator would support the concept.