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<br /> Comprehensive Review of <br /> S olid W aste Collection and Disposal Options <br /> <br />v2.1 97 10/22/12 <br />In addition, the availability of land within the Town’s limits that meets the regulatory siting <br />restrictions outlined in the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources <br />solid waste regulations (15A NCAC 13B) and community criteria that would be developed is <br />limited. Additional studies would be needed to confirm availability of such land. <br />7.1.1.3 Advantages <br />Based on our experience, the following advantages are associated with developing a new transfer <br />station within the Town’s planning jurisdictional limits: <br /> Reduced collections and disposal transportation costs and its associated consumption <br />of fossil fuels. <br /> Ability to control the Town’s waste disposal, select an ultimate disposal facility, and <br />secure a long-term contract to provide increased stability with respect to future <br />landfill disposal costs. <br /> Greater self-sufficiency as compared to direct haul scenarios involving facilities <br />owned and operated by others. <br /> Ability to quickly respond to emergencies or other unanticipated conditions. <br /> A regional transfer station would reduce the costs incurred by the Town, while <br />promoting collaboration, since a portion would be allocated to regional members. <br />7.1.1.4 Disadvantages <br />Based on our experience, the following disadvantages are associated with developing a new <br />transfer station within the Town’s planning jurisdictional limits: <br /> Long-term commitment required (operational periods). <br /> Community opposition and potential perceived impacts to communities surrounding <br />the transfer station (e.g., noise, vectors, odors, and traffic), although modern transfer <br />stations employ mitigation measures that can reduce or eliminate these impacts. <br /> Increased responsibility for environmental stewardship resulting from a Town owned <br />and operated solid waste facility. For example: operations would include design and <br />implementation of environmental protection measures, environmental monitoring <br />requirements, and good housekeeping activities when compared to direct haul <br />scenarios. However, these environmental risks are manageable and notably fewer <br />liabilities are associated with a transfer station versus operating a Town landfill. <br /> Significant capital investment required (see discussion below). <br /> Developing a new transfer station could require 2 to 3 years to complete. As such, it <br />is not available as a short-term alternative to the Town in the near future.