Highlands council is concerned that Hartland Landfill’s changes to its operating hours will increase illegal dumping in the rural district.
The district borders the regional landfill and illegal dumping has long been an issue in Highlands. The landfill is proposing that it close to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays to reduce costs, potentially $160,000 per year.
To offset the closure, the landfill would be open for two additional hours each day from Wednesday to Saturday. Commercial haulers are not affected by the change.
Highlands was approached by Capital Regional District for its opinion on the potential change at the landfill.
Mayor Jane Mendum suggested Hartland staff could help with cleanup or cover the costs of illegal dumping, if it occurs during times when the landfill is closed to the public.
“A three day stretch may or may not have an impact,” Mendum said. “I would like to have this reviewed in six months or a year’s time.”
For Coun. Marcie Mclean the closure on Mondays is her biggest concern. Weekend projects around the home often make much of the waste delivered to the landfill, she said.
“I think we are going to have more dumpage if they are closed Mondays,” Mclean said.
The CRD has been conducting its public review process since January and will review its findings in April.
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