Stop Waste Management Landfill Expansion in Plainfield Township
The Issue
We, the concerned residents of Plainfield Township and surrounding areas, are deeply opposed to Waste Management's (WM) proposal to expand their landfill. This expansion directly impacts the health and quality of life of our community members. The persistent odor from the existing landfill is a significant nuisance, diminishing the ability of residents to enjoy their homes and outdoor spaces. Moreover, there are serious concerns about potential health risks. Studies indicate that living near landfill sites can be associated with increased risks of respiratory issues, certain cancers, and birth defects. The expansion increases the potential for groundwater contamination due to liner failures, posing a severe threat to our community's well-being.
The expansion of the landfill puts at stake the very character of our township. Plainfield Township has long been defined by its rural nature, farmland, and forests. Approving this rezoning would contradict years of planning and the expressed wishes of residents to preserve this heritage. It also threatens to undermine property values and the economic development of our community. An independent financial analysis indicates the $14+ Million currently saved by Plainfield Township in a trust will insulate taxpayers from any impact of lost revenue through at least 2038. Over that time, we can focus on the future economic development of the area, much like what was done throughout the Slate Belt when the quarries closed during the early 20th century.
The Board of Supervisors must consider the long-term consequences of prioritizing financial gains over the health and environmental integrity of Plainfield Township.
The time to act is now. The Planning Commission has already diligently considered these issues and voted 4-1 against rezoning for this expansion. We urge the Board of Supervisors to respect the Planning Commission's recommendation and reject Waste Management's rezoning request. Our community's health, quality of life, and the preservation of our rural character depend on it. We implore you to make the right decision and protect Plainfield Township from the detrimental effects of further landfill expansion.
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The Issue
We, the concerned residents of Plainfield Township and surrounding areas, are deeply opposed to Waste Management's (WM) proposal to expand their landfill. This expansion directly impacts the health and quality of life of our community members. The persistent odor from the existing landfill is a significant nuisance, diminishing the ability of residents to enjoy their homes and outdoor spaces. Moreover, there are serious concerns about potential health risks. Studies indicate that living near landfill sites can be associated with increased risks of respiratory issues, certain cancers, and birth defects. The expansion increases the potential for groundwater contamination due to liner failures, posing a severe threat to our community's well-being.
The expansion of the landfill puts at stake the very character of our township. Plainfield Township has long been defined by its rural nature, farmland, and forests. Approving this rezoning would contradict years of planning and the expressed wishes of residents to preserve this heritage. It also threatens to undermine property values and the economic development of our community. An independent financial analysis indicates the $14+ Million currently saved by Plainfield Township in a trust will insulate taxpayers from any impact of lost revenue through at least 2038. Over that time, we can focus on the future economic development of the area, much like what was done throughout the Slate Belt when the quarries closed during the early 20th century.
The Board of Supervisors must consider the long-term consequences of prioritizing financial gains over the health and environmental integrity of Plainfield Township.
The time to act is now. The Planning Commission has already diligently considered these issues and voted 4-1 against rezoning for this expansion. We urge the Board of Supervisors to respect the Planning Commission's recommendation and reject Waste Management's rezoning request. Our community's health, quality of life, and the preservation of our rural character depend on it. We implore you to make the right decision and protect Plainfield Township from the detrimental effects of further landfill expansion.
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Petition created on April 29, 2025