Commission Turns To AG For Landfill Help
By: Jamiese Price
Updated: December 18, 2012
Dothan commissioners are seeking advice from Alabama's attorney general in hopes of expanding its landfill. The Board of Zoning Adjustment recently rejected a request to permit use of 200 acres adjacent to the current garbage dump site.
Commissioners, on a 4-2 vote, decided Tuesday to ask Attorney General Luther Strange if the BZA's authority extends to public projects such as a landfill. City Manager Mike West said other court cases may suggest it doesn't. "What we want to do is seek some clarification from the attorney general to see if this is correct," West said. "If it is, then it could be that expansion of the landfill is still an option.".
West contends expanding the current landfill is the most economical option for the city. He estimates transporting garbage to a private facility would increase costs significantly.
Commissioners Amos Newsome and James Reading voted against seeking the opinion. "(The BZA) decision is suppose to represent the community," said Newsome. "Each board member has been confirmed by the commission. We are now saying to our board we don't trust you."
The city has also filed an appeal to the Circuit Court.
