Marion County ponders landfills
Contract renewed with Robinson Trucking
Staff reporter
Research and discussion continued Monday regarding the possibility of Marion County changing landfill locations.
Marion County Commissioner Randy Dallke reported that Reno County landfill made a standing offer of $25 per ton for tipping fees at their landfill. The current contract with Hamm Quarries near Perry is $18.57 per ton.
According to information provided to Dallke by David Brazil, county sanitarian and transfer station manager, the county pays for approximately 30 trips per month by Robinson Trucking of Florence, to Perry at $2.10 per mile. This costs the county approximately $137,418 annually.
If the county's trash were hauled to Reno County, the cost could be approximately $187,000 per year.
Dallke also figured if the county purchased a new semi tractor for approximately $100,000, and made annual payments during a 10-year period of $10,000 per year. Would the county be any further ahead? Dallke instructed Brazil to research expenses for a county-owned and operated truck, and hauling to Reno County.
"It will be interesting when McPherson County opens a Subtitle D landfill," said Brazil, which is in the works for the near future.
Brazil recommended the commission renew the contract with Robinson Trucking, maintain the current landfill contract with Perry, and continue to do more research to determine the most feasible solution.
In other department business:
— Brazil reported budgets for planning and zoning, environmental health, and transfer station are in line but will keep tabs on environmental health to avoid going over-budget.
— Budget encumbrances will include funds for a walking floor trailer, and the purchase of lots near the transfer station to expand operations and fence to enclose the area.
An offer was made to the landowner and the county is waiting for a response.
Encumbrances from all departments will be reviewed by the commission Dec. 30.
— Dallke asked Brazil how mileage is monitored for the solid waste hauled to the landfill. Brazil said there was a meter on the hub of the trailers and logs are maintained.
— Commission chairman Bob Hein re-appointed Irvin Ediger and Dallke re-appointed Glen Unrau to the county's planning commission.
— Commissioner Dan Holub asked Brazil about the county's relationship with other entities regarding water quality issues at Marion Reservoir.
Brazil said he is in constant contact with Peggy Blackman, WRAPS coordinator.
Holub asked Brazil to set up a meeting for the commission with Congressman Jerry Moran to discuss water quality issues.
— The semi tractor used at the transfer station to pull trailers in and out of the building recently was repaired at Williams Service, Florence. It was determined by mechanics that more repair work is needed. The truck is usable for a while, said Brazil, but he would like to schedule repair. The commission instructed him to do so.
— A part-time employee was hired for the transfer station to work eight hours on Saturdays and during the week as needed.
