OJAI : Weldon Operator Asks to Be on Trash Panel

Facing probable defeat of the proposed Weldon Canyon Landfill, the site operator has asked the Board of Supervisors to create a countywide task force to come up with a plan to dispose of the county’s trash.

In a recent letter, Waste Management of North America asked that it be included in the task force, which would work to come up with a comprehensive waste disposal plan.

“Whether or not Weldon happens, we are willing to accept the outcome,” Waste Management spokesman Mike Williams said. “The only thing to do now is to assess what is viable and look more closely at other options.”

Three of the five supervisors have said they oppose the dump, proposed between Ventura and Ojai. Other trash-disposal options include recycling or hauling trash out of the county and dumping it at another landfill.

Supervisor Susan K. Lacey questioned the need for such an advisory committee. “I think we have a task force,” Lacey said. “It’s called the Waste Commission.” A representative from the county and each of its 10 cities sits on the commission.

Williams said the task force would differ from existing bodies because Waste Management would have a seat on the committee.

But Lacey said: “Waste Management and anyone else from private industry is always welcome to come forward and make their concerns known. To put together a whole other committee is really pointless.”

Supervisor John K. Flynn supported the proposal. “All the agencies now involved in waste are caught up in big egos and personality disputes,” Flynn said. “A fresh approach is welcome.”

Flynn said that after he meets with Waste Management officials to discuss the proposal, he may ask the board to consider it.