Groveland Twp.- At least one township official is concerned that a new Oakland County solid waste landfill may be located inside Groveland Township’s borders.
Although unconfirmed, Robert DePalma, Groveland Township supervisor says that during recent years several individuals and county officials have expressed interest in a section of property near the Oakland-Holly township boarder for a solid waste landfill.
The section of property just east of Dixie Highway, south of Holdridge Road and north of Shields Road has been eyed by several parties, he says.
‘During the past 10 to 15 years a gravel pit on the Holly Township side of the line has been considered for a landfill,? said DePalma. ‘For various reasons these sites were denied by the Oakland County Solid Waste Committee.?
DePalma’s concern that a landfill issue was brewing intensified following a meeting with 1st District Oakland County Commissioner Bill Patterson (R-Oxford) along with John Spokaeski, retired Eagle Valley Landfill manager.
During the March 2004 meeting DePalma was asked if the township would consider a landfill near the Groveland-Holly border.
‘I made it quite clear we have no interest in the property becoming a landfill,? said DePalma. ‘I also stated that the Oakland Solid Waste Committee would have to show a need for a new landfill. It’s my understanding the solid waste plan is closed.?
Compounding DePalma’s concerns are the repeated denials by Orion Township to expand the Eagle Valley Landfill located within its boundaries.
‘We did meet with John Spokaeski and he did express an interest in a landfill,? said Patterson. ‘Anything is possible, and I’m certain they’re many hoops they must jump through before a landfill can be established. However, right now I’m not aware of a plan.?
Sue Ann Douglas, 8th District Oakland County Commissioner (R-Rochester) who represents the Oakland County Commissioners on the Oakland County Solid Waste Planning Commission is not surprised such landfill issues have cropped up.
‘I would expect that someone may bring the landfill issue back up,? said Douglas. ‘It’s been before up twice before during the 12 years I’ve been on the board. They keep pressing on to get something started. No new landfills are in the plans however.?
Douglas added that during the next year the county will begin work on a new solid waste plan required by the state every five years.
‘We do the plan every five years it takes us that long to get it together. This time a lot of new people on the solid waste planning commission.?
DePalma along with the Groveland Board of Trustees sent a letter regarding support or anticipation of any future landfills to Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson requesting a direct answer on the issue prior to July 21.