A motion was introduced to move Resolution 506 concerning Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to the top of the agenda. The resolution was initiated by Shannon Hardy, a 30-year childhood cancer survivor, and recognized September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Commissioners acknowledged Hardy’s personal history and advocacy work, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about childhood cancer. A proposal was made to amend the resolution to specifically recognize Shannon as a survivor and advocate, which was seconded and subsequently passed. The resolution highlighted the statistic that only six percent of cancer research funding is allocated to childhood cancer. This prompted calls from the commissioners for increased funding for childhood cancer research, with suggestions to potentially draft a resolution advocating for this issue at state and federal levels. The amendment recognizing Shannon was voted on and passed unanimously, followed by the adoption of the resolution itself.

As the discussion transitioned, a representative from the Atlantic County Utilities Authority, Matthew, spoke about ongoing issues related to odor complaints and operational transparency. He clarified that the board of commissioners does not manage the day-to-day operations of the authority, which has its own board of directors. Matthew provided context surrounding the complaints that have persisted since mid-April, expressing his concern over misinformation circulating in the community. He emphasized the need for reliable data amid the proliferation of opinions shared on social media, which can contribute to misunderstandings among the public. He highlighted the authority’s $5 million investment to address odor issues, a matter of significant concern for the public.

The representative provided a detailed overview of landfill gas management, explaining that the region had experienced significant rainfall which contributed to increased gas production, a phenomenon observed across all 13 landfills in the state. In response, the landfill had installed 19 gas wells, crucial for managing gas emissions effectively. The landfill is equipped with over 110 gas wells across its 102 acres. In April, the management team focused on addressing the effects of heavy rainfall, which included efforts to stabilize slopes and manage runoff. Preparations for a renewable natural gas (RNG) project are underway, with the expectation that it will come online in August 2025. The recent work also included the installation of an 18-inch header pipe to enhance gas collection efficiency.

An important aspect of the discussion was compliance with regulatory measures regarding surface emissions monitoring. A third-party consultant is responsible for measuring methane levels at numerous points throughout the landfill. The monitoring process is considered rigorous, with immediate responses to any exceedances, often involving minor adjustments to equipment. The representative addressed ongoing concerns about perceived odor issues, clarifying that the human nose can detect hydrogen sulfide at 0.5 parts per billion. Despite occasional complaints, he asserted that the landfill has remained in compliance with these regulatory standards since 2015, with only one exceedance recorded in that timeframe.

The conversation also included an update on a landfill capping project, involving bidding for work to cap 16 acres of the landfill’s eastern portion. This capping is part of a larger closure plan, and the representative emphasized that the county’s support has been instrumental in moving the project forward, which is slated to commence in early 2025. The caps are intended to mitigate stormwater and leachate generation, thereby reducing potential off-site emissions.

The landfill project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting landfill gas into a usable energy source. This initiative is described as the first of its kind in New Jersey, with the potential for a 95% reduction in emissions. The complexities of landfill management were highlighted, particularly regarding odor control. Questions were raised about whether capping the landfill would alleviate unpleasant smells, to which it was clarified that simply closing the landfill does not eliminate odors. Instead, a gas collection system is important for managing emissions effectively. The project, anticipated to be complete by mid-July next year, will also influence local municipalities by underscoring the importance of the landfill for solid waste disposal and its financial implications. The potential for increased wind exposure due to the open field was mentioned, but without a baseline study, it would be challenging to quantify the impact scientifically.

Concerns about groundwater contamination and measures to prevent the landfill from affecting the local water supply were also raised. The representative referenced existing regulations and safety measures, including a double liner system, designed to prevent contamination. Monitoring wells are in place to oversee liquid levels and quality around the landfill. The proximity of a known contaminated site, referred to as Price’s Pit, was acknowledged, and the representative reiterated the importance of the regulations established to protect public health and the environment.

The meeting proceeded with several other resolutions, including the appointment of Erin Lerner to the Atlantic County Criminal Justice Advisory Board, various grant applications, and contractual agreements for county services. The commissioners expressed gratitude toward state representatives for their advocacy and support in securing funding for critical services, particularly regarding health and transportation.