Dive Brief:
- Some residents of Paducah, KY are upset with Freedom Waste Service's construction of a new transfer station, as reported by WPSD Local 6.
- Waste was previously handled at a different location, but now that Freedom has taken over the city contract it has decided to invest in a new facility.
- According to local residents, Freedom has had minimal contact with them so far. Paducah's city manager said the new transfer station is in a less densely populated neighborhood and he doesn't expect any issues with noise or dust.
Dive Insight:
Republic Services had collected Paducah's waste for 20 years, though city law required the new contract be put up for public bid and Kentucky-based Freedom came in with a cheaper offer. The new contract reportedly costs about 20% less due in part to the reduced transportation costs of Freedom using a closer landfill.
Waste-related facilities are rarely popular in residential areas, regardless of the details. Residents of Anaheim, CA are currently protesting a proposed anaerobic digestion facility, a popular Oakland, CA recycling center was shut down this summer due to neighbors' complaints and a Georgia transfer station received permission to expand on the condition that it would address community concerns.
The full level of Freedom Waste Service's past or planned community engagement isn't clear yet and they may end up being good neighbors. Helping residents understand why the transfer station is necessary and being responsive to their concerns will be key to keeping relations cordial.
