Benton County commissioners adopt written decision approving Valley Landfills expansion permit, 2-1

The Benton County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 17 adopted written findings, conclusions of law and conditions to approve Valley Landfills' application for a conditional use permit to expand an existing landfill (land use file LU‑24‑027). The board adopted Order D2025‑071 and the motion passed by a 2‑1 voice vote.

The hearing was a continuation of previous quasi‑judicial proceedings; the host reminded the room that the record had been closed on Oct. 29, 2025 and that no additional public testimony could be accepted. Commissioners made ex parte disclosures on the record before the vote: one commissioner said she had received many emails and brief conversations with Representative Finger‑McDonald and Senator Gelser‑Bluen and had attended a town hall with Attorney General Rayfield; Commissioner Shepard said she had received numerous emails and in‑person communications thanking her for her November 4 vote and acknowledged receipt of a DEQ pre‑enforcement letter referenced by correspondents (the DEQ letter is not part of the closed record).

The board's action adopts the final written decision and conditions as of Nov. 17, 2025. The host noted the decision may be appealed to the Land Use Board of Appeals.

Procedural note: because the record was closed prior to this continued hearing, the board did not accept additional public testimony at the Nov. 17 session.