Orange County NC Website
It is intended as noted above that some thought and acceptance be developed toward <br /> a `priority list' of actions for which the Remediation Reserve Fund be specifically <br /> dedicated to finance. The legality of some uses proposed by RENA and others could <br /> lead to successful challenges that cause delays to implementing important <br /> improvements. <br /> A clear, concise list of priorities should be a first step to action. <br /> Since this area clearly lies within or next to the municipal boundaries of the Towns of <br /> Chapel Hill and Carrboro, it would seem reasonable both towns might extend additional <br /> resources to address needs not directly/indirectly attributed to the landfill's location. <br /> Previous studies suggest that the direct involvement of the municipalities will be <br /> essential to success. (Municipal matching funds could be used to meet specific <br /> demands). <br /> 2. The Board of Commissioners has full authority to close the landfill at `its' option. <br /> Extending the landfill's closure date allows the accumulation of financial resources to <br /> address some but not all needs within the Rogers Road area. <br /> It is suggested the Board of Commissioners clearly declare a closure date to finally <br /> resolve the issue of how long the landfill remains open. At least a six-month notice <br /> needs to be provided to all users. If desired the landfill could be closed as early as the <br /> end of 2011. <br /> 3. There may be alternative disposal methods available for solid waste management at <br /> some future date. Regardless of technology, those alternative methods will come at a <br /> higher cost AND still involve the transport of large volumes of waste to a specific <br /> location. This will remain a county-wide issue BUT not solely a county government <br /> problem. <br /> Legitimate, forthright discussions need to occur involving the disposal of municipal solid <br /> waste. Method to be selected, how to fund the associated costs and where to place <br /> facilities remain to be addressed. The process should be transparent but focused. NO <br /> neighborhood, urban or rural, wants to host such a facility. Addressing those localized <br /> concerns will be a difficult and troubling task. <br /> 4. Recycling remains a high priority in Orange County. The County has taken the lead <br /> role in providing these services county-wide. The County must continue to focus on <br /> efficiencies in both the fixed drop-off locations and curbside service elements of this <br /> program. Automation and compaction of recyclables will help contain costs BUT those <br /> costs will increase. <br /> Recycling also includes debris and yard waste services along with demolition waste <br /> disposal. Those residing in the Rogers/Eubanks Road area should recognize and <br /> understand that Eubanks Road will remain home to the County's demolition debris <br /> disposal efforts and solid waste equipment storage and maintenance functions long <br /> after the municipal solid waste landfill closure. <br /> There are no current plans to relocate that facility or site a new similar facility elsewhere <br /> in Orange County for the foreseeable future. <br /> 5. Summarizing: Extending the lifespan current municipal solid waste landfill can provide <br /> a revenue stream to address some but not all Rogers Road area needs. Determining <br />