Agenda - Council - 06/23/1981 - Laserfiche WebLink

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52 Objectives Promote the use of technically and economically reliable proces- sing techniques. Identify problems in processing and handling of materials that may reduce the facility's efficiency and reliability. Criteria 3a. Preference shall be given to facilities with materials handling and processing techniques that are known to provide continuous, reliable and effective service, while recovering energy and/or materials that consistently meet market specifications. 3b. Proposed waste facilities employing materials handling and pro- cessing techniques should provide for alternative service in case the techniques are economically or technically not feasible, or extended time is required to correct design deficiencies. LOCATION The location of solid and hazardous waste management facilities will be influenced by several factors, including availability of suitable land, proximity to markets for energy or secondary materials, proximity to major highways and sources of waste, and availability of adequate public utilities such as electric power, water supply and wastewater treatment services. The facility's location must be com- plementary to the Metropolitan Development Guide policies and county solid (AND HAZARDOUS) waste master plans. Proposed sites (MUST) should not create adverse social, economic or aesthetic impact on nearby areas. Existing technology and transportation costs will restrict some waste facilities to locations near potential markets and waste generators. The land environment has certain waste disposal limitations and should be protected. Therefore, the site selection process must measure 1) the level of environmental protection provided by the site's physical characteristics, and 2) the degree to which the proposed site is consistent with public policy and values. When evaluating site characteristics, public acceptance is often the most difficult factor to measure. The public image of a "waste facility" is usually negative, regardless of facility design precau- tions and operational controls. Generally, people do not want waste facilities near them. This attitude may be based on "real risks" (threats to public health and environmental quality) and/or "per- ceived risks" (adverse effects which are believed to be associated with a waste facility but are not otherwise documented or substanti- ated). Successful site selection and development of a waste facility requires both the "real" and "perceived" risks are reduced to accep- table levels. Real risks may be reduced by 1) identifying sites with physical characteristics that prevent pollutants from moving off the site, and 2) designing the facility to prevent and/or regulate the release of waste. Reducing perceived risks requires that the site selection effort must address not only the suitability of the site's