Agenda - Council - 09/13/1982 - Special

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;I I I I Anoka County is currently studying waste shredding as a means of significantly shortening the period in which highly contaminated leachate is produced. If this can be accomplished, it may increase the acceptability of technological environmental controls by shortening the period in which their integrity and reliability are critical. Placement of the new site adjacent to the existing, unlined landfill increases the risk that greater contamination could occur should control systems fail. In comparison with the Oak Grove or East Bethel sites, however, the risk is not as great. Estimates of the leaching potential after closure for the existing fill are low because of its steep side slopes and impermeable cover material. ACCESS The site is within a reasonable haul distance for all but the northeastern townships in the county. In addition, it is well located to serve the county's major waste generating communities. I I CONCLUSIONS The proposed Ramsey site is compatible with planned industrial land uses to the south and east. For most nearby residential areas, the site should be less intrusive than the existing landfill. m The site is closer to the Gateway North Industrial Airport than recommended by Federal Aviation Administration guidelines. I I I I I I 3. The site is not expected to adversely affect existing or future development in the immedqate area. Soils on the site are highly permeable and do not protect surficial ground- water. Lower aquifers are believed to be artesian and to be protected by a confining bedrock formation. The system of double liners and collection systems, as proposed by the county, would lessen risk to the surficial and upper drift aquifers. 5. Use of the site is not in conflict'with Council policies for agricultural preservation. 6.' The site's buffer area should be extended to encompass a marshy area at the southwest corner of the site. A drainage plan should be prepared to ensure it's protection from surface water contamination. Access to the site is good. No roadway upgrading is needed. Emergency services could be delayed by trains using the Burlington Northern track south of the site. 8. The site is within a feasible hau'ling distance from potential waste- generation sources. 9. It is not apparent that additional satisfactory sites are present in Anoka- County. I I RECOMMENDATION That the Metropolitan Council approve Anoka County's candidate landfill Site P in Ramsey as suitable for disposal of mixed municipal solid waste. SA268P 8/3.~/82