The primary focus was on Maryland’s Landing’s proposal for corrective action at the closed Halifax landfill. Presentations from environmental attorney Donald Nagel, Jared Everton from WL French, and licensed site professional Rick Strongberg outlined the need to address ongoing issues such as slope collapses and failures in the stormwater management system. The landfill, closed since 1995, has been experiencing erosion and sediment issues due to stormwater flowing down its sides. The proposed corrective actions included increasing the landfill’s height and reshaping its slopes to comply with DEP regulations. The adjustments aim to improve drainage and prevent further erosion.

A participant inquired about the landfill’s current and projected heights, with Everton explaining that the landfill’s peak would remain largely concealed by surrounding trees. The plan intends to elevate the landfill from its current height of 144 feet to a plateau at 158 feet, peaking at 170 feet. Community members expressed apprehension about the visual impact and structural safety of the proposed changes.

Further discussion during the meeting highlighted the community’s unease regarding soil management practices, particularly the characterization and testing of soils brought to the site. A participant with expertise in environmental toxicology emphasized the need for rigorous soil testing to ensure compliance with safety standards. Concerns were raised about the potential introduction of contaminated soil, with assurances given that only soil compliant with RCS2 standards would be accepted.

Air quality and dust emissions were also central to the discussion, especially given a significant dust episode during the dry winter of 2023. Continuous monitoring devices have been established to evaluate dust levels, with findings indicating that dust levels remained within acceptable limits. However, residents expressed skepticism about the adequacy of the dust monitoring efforts and the potential health risks posed by airborne particulates.

Groundwater quality and contamination were issues, with residents voicing concerns about the landfill’s impact on nearby aquifers and drinking water wells. The ongoing groundwater sampling includes wells near both the Republic and Maryland’s landfills. Participants highlighted the importance of ensuring that ongoing landfill activities do not jeopardize future water resources for Halifax, particularly as the town continues to develop.

Residents like Bill Russell, a former board member involved in the original closure process, raised significant apprehensions about the landfill’s unlined nature and potential hazards to well water.

A recurring theme was the perceived inadequacy of financial compensation from landfill operations relative to the disruption experienced by the community. Residents expressed disappointment over the limited economic benefits, with some questioning the town’s financial return from the project. The environmental and public health risks were seen as outweighing the financial gains, prompting calls for the board to oppose the landfill’s expansion formally.

In response to these concerns, the board acknowledged the necessity for further research and oversight to address inconsistencies and improve community relations. Discussions included the potential hiring of an expert engineer to assist with project oversight, although budget constraints were noted as a potential obstacle.

The meeting concluded with procedural matters, including the appointment of an interim health agent and the approval of fees for body art and tattoo establishment permits. Despite administrative efficiencies, the session was characterized by heightened public engagement and a call for greater transparency and accountability in managing the landfill.