Urgent: Navan Landfill Expansion Proposal Sparks Outrage Among Residents

UPDATE: A shocking proposal to expand the Navan landfill has just been announced, igniting immediate backlash from local residents and city councillor Catherine Kitts. The expansion, which will increase the landfill’s capacity by an additional 3 to 4 million cubic metres, comes as a surprise, as many believed the site would be decommissioned per a previous agreement.

Waste Connections of Canada has begun an environmental assessment for the landfill, which is projected to reach its current capacity of 7.6 million cubic metres by 2027. The landfill, located adjacent to the Mer Bleue Bog in Orléans South-Navan, was originally constructed in 1960 and has faced community opposition over the years.

Councillor Kitts expressed her outrage, stating, “There was an understanding in the community that we weren’t going to see another expansion.” She noted that anyone who purchased homes nearby would have been assured that the landfill operations were winding down.

Residents have voiced concerns about the potential increase in truck traffic and unpleasant odors affecting their quality of life. Kitts remarked, “I think people in the community feel misled and there’s real concern about this proposal.”

In an unexpected turn, Chris Visser, the Waste Connections Canada manager overseeing the project, has encouraged residents to attend upcoming open houses for more information. However, Kitts clarified that the project is provincially-led, meaning the city has limited authority in the review process. “This notice represents just the first step in a multi-year process,” she stated.

Local resident Shawna Alary raised alarm about how the expansion could impact nearby businesses, expressing concern over the potential for increased odor as the area develops. “With the smell in the summer, I don’t think that’s that great,” she said.

In a determined pushback, Kitts announced her intentions to explore legal options to halt the landfill’s expansion, focusing on the 2007 agreement that many believe holds legal weight.

Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops, and residents are urged to participate in the upcoming public consultations to voice their concerns. The next open houses are expected to occur in the coming months, providing a critical opportunity for community engagement.

This urgent matter highlights the ongoing struggle between community interests and waste management policies, and residents are encouraged to stay informed and involved as the environmental assessment progresses.