Wayne County Officials Express Concerns Over Hazardous Waste Transfer

Wayne County Officials Express Concerns Over Hazardous Waste Transfer

Wayne County, Michigan – Local officials are voicing their worries regarding a recent planned transfer of hazardous and radioactive waste into a landfill located in Van Buren Township. During a public meeting held on Tuesday, various members of the Wayne County Commission expressed their discontent over the lack of transparency associated with these shipments. The meeting drew the attention of dozens of attendees, including U.S. Representatives Rashida Tlaib and Debbie Dingell.

Reaction to Hazardous Waste Transfer

Patrick Cullen, from the Wayne County’s environmental services, shared his apprehensions about how the county was portrayed in media reports stating that Republic Services’ Wayne Disposal facility would be accepting radioactive waste from a New York location known for its historic involvement with the Manhattan Project during World War II. Cullen pointed out that Wayne County has one of the largest licensed processing and storage facilities capable of dealing with hazardous materials.

“We happen to have one of the largest licensed processing and storage facilities here in Wayne County, in Van Buren Township,” Cullen stated, revealing that the Army Corps of Engineers had designated the landfill as one of five across the nation approved for such materials. Commissioner Joseph Palamera inquired about whether this landfill is a primary site for waste disposal nationwide, with Cullen suggesting that much of the material would indeed arrive there.

Calls for Enhanced Regulations

During the meeting, Commissioner Al Haidous emphasized the need for a more sustainable solution, advocating for stricter regulations at both state and federal levels. He pointed out that local communities cannot prohibit hazardous waste shipments since federal law permits such activities. “It’s not Wayne County or the local community, it’s the federal government who issued the license,” noted Haidous, highlighting the necessity for better communication regarding hazardous waste transportation.

Commissioners discussed a resolution aimed at preventing toxic waste from being sent into Wayne County and also sought to enhance communication about future shipments. Chair Alisha Bell voiced her frustration over the lack of notification, stating, “Unfortunately, it goes from the feds to the state to local, and it kind of stopped at the state level.” She added that it is unacceptable for local officials to learn about such actions only through the media.

Local Representatives Weigh In

Rep. Rashida Tlaib echoed concerns about compliance with established regulations. She highlighted that just because a company is granted a license does not ensure they are following proper environmental protocols. “When’s the last time they (Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy) denied a permit?” asked Tlaib, noting her observations that permits tend to be granted despite potential violations.

In response to concerns about potential environmental impacts, Commissioner Sam Baydoun raised the question of finding alternate dumping sites, suggesting that waste might be better placed “in the middle of nowhere.” U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell responded by explaining that the state holds much authority on permitting decisions.

Waste Management Confirmation of Notifications

Under scrutiny, Wayne Disposal defended its procedures, claiming they had appropriately notified local officials and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy of their intention to accept waste from the Niagara Falls Storage Site. According to a source from Dingell’s office, the state reviewed the project and agreed that the waste could be disposed of safely at Wayne Disposal.

The landfill operator communicated the importance of ongoing environmental monitoring, stating they are responsible for a comprehensive radiological monitoring program assessing various environmental media including groundwater and air quality. They emphasized that their monitoring is regularly compared with data from the state to ensure consistency and compliance.

Next Steps for Wayne County

As the meeting concluded, it became clear that Wayne County leaders are determined to ensure stronger regulations and communication moving forward. Several officials remain committed to advocating for policies that protect local citizens and the environment, striving to prevent Wayne County from being seen as a dumping ground for hazardous waste.