County landfill managers warn of rising lithium-ion battery risks and disposal costs

Public works staff told the commission the county landfill is increasingly finding lithium-ion batteries in regular trash and that such batteries pose fire and handling risks. Bruce (Public Works) described recent pit inspections that turned up multiple lithium-ion batteries and said the storage and transport of those batteries for safe disposal is expensive and operationally difficult.

"We've found 4 or 5 lithium ion batteries ... they're so horribly expensive to send off," Bruce said, describing the need for lined concrete storage and the potential for thermal runaway if batteries are damaged or bulging. He said regional partners and DEQ guidance are being consulted and that shipping and disposal costs can be substantial.

Staff said the county and regional partners will monitor DEQ studies and explore options for a coordinated disposal site or collection program; they also noted that storage and safety requirements make county-provided collection sites complex and costly. Commissioners discussed the need to coordinate public messaging after solutions are identified.

No formal action was taken; staff said they will continue to work with regional landfill managers and DEQ and to develop communications on safe disposal once options are identified.