SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5068

BYSenator Pullen

Phasing out the Cedar Hills landfill.

Senate Committee on Parks & Ecology

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 5, 1987

Senate Staff:Rick Anderson (786-7717)

AS OF FEBRUARY 5, 1987

BACKGROUND:

With the closure of the Midway and Kent Highland landfills serving Seattle, the Cedar Hills landfill is now receiving nearly all of the garbage generated in King County.  This amounts to 3,500-4,000 tons of garbage per day.

The Cedar Hills landfill has a long history of environmental problems.  Some of these problems have resulted in court actions against the County.

Three small rural landfills are also currently operating in King County.  All three of these landfills are scheduled for closure in 1990.

SUMMARY:

The Cedar Hills landfill will close over a four-year period according to the following schedule:  In 1988 the landfill will accept only 75 percent of the garbage received during 1987; in 1989 only 50 percent will be accepted; in 1990 only 25 percent of the garbage will be accepted.  No garbage will be allowed in the landfill after 1990.

Fiscal Note:      requested