Frequently Asked Questions
Where do they want to build the mega-landfill?
The proposed site of the facility is a 1069-acre plot in eastern Dade City between Enterprise Road and Messick Road. This area is adjacent to the Withlacoochee River and Green Swamp, a vital source of water for the Tampa Bay area, as well as an important ecosystem for the entire state.
What is leachate?
Quite simply, leachate is a combination of all the liquids that have traveled down through the trash and settled at the bottom of a landfill. Think of it as “landfill tea”. These fluids can carry disease and toxic substances. Any release of leachate into a river or local water supply could expose the entire region to these harmful substances.
Is this more than a local issue?
Absolutely! Nobody wants a landfill in their own backyard, and those of us in East Pasco are no different. But the truth is, this landfill will affect taxpayers throughout our County and could impact the water supply for the entire Tampa Bay region. That is not a risk any of us should be willing to take—especially when a better option is available and has already proven its effectiveness. That option is expanding the existing Pasco County waste-to-energy facility.
Will the landfill impact my property values?
Yes! No matter how you look at it, landfills cause property values to decrease. This 1,069-acre waste facility—with a 220 ft. pile of trash—will bring increased truck traffic, noise and foul smells. It would be outrageous to think it wouldn’t have a major impact on property values—even Angelo’s studies confirm this fact.
What materials will be accepted at the proposed landfill?
The laws allow more than household garbage to be accepted at the proposed facility. Hazardous materials, such contaminated soils, could also be collected there. Angelo’s has stated that they do not have any plans to accept hazardous materials, but there would be no way to legally hold them to such a statement—or know whether or not they are actually holding to their word.
What can I do to get involved?
Speak up! We have started a petition that will be submitted to the Pasco County Commission, as well as the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. We also encourage you to write letters to the Pasco County Commission, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Tampa Bay newspapers. You can also sign onto our mailing list to be notified of upcoming meetings, and to receive up-to-date information and newsletters.
How will this affect me?
This issue affects everyone in the Tampa Bay area because the landfill is next to the Green Swamp, Withlacoochee River and Hillsborough River! This means any leak could affect our entire regional water supply, as well as a valuable Florida ecosystem. The landfill will also have an effect on land values, local traffic and wildlife.
What is a better alternative?
Expanding the waste-to-energy facility will keep Pasco County headed in the right direction for waste management. It is safe, economically sound and was designed for expansion. Combined with a user-friendly recycling campaign, the facility can continue to generate revenue and reduce waste volume by 90 percent.
What are the benefits of expanding the current facility … won’t
that cost more?
Expanding the facility would cost money, but it would also increase electric revenues from $15 million a year to about $22 million a year (based on 2007 estimate). This would recoup the cost of the expansion in very little time, while also creating electricity—all without releasing excessive amounts of greenhouse gases or using costly fossil fuels. Expansion is good for our economy and our environment.