Commissioner proposes north-of-river waste-to-energy and recycling hub to serve growing northern Lee County

During the May 21 workshop a commissioner raised a proposal to evaluate siting a waste-to-energy plant and a material recycling facility north of the Caloosahatchee River to reduce crossing of garbage and recycling trucks over bridges and to serve projected growth north of the river. The commissioner said locating facilities north of the river could keep northern waste flows local and free capacity in southern facilities.

The chair (S1) responded that the idea "makes a lot of sense" and urged staff to look into it. County Manager Dave Horner reiterated that solid waste capital planning already includes the material recycling facility property purchase and a waste-to-energy life-extension project, and said the county would request participation from neighboring counties (Hendry and Glades) on multi-jurisdiction components where appropriate.

Commissioners and staff directed that the concept be captured as a takeaway for future discussion; Horner said the county will develop financing plans and further detail as the capital plan proceeds.