County gets update from Santek concerning rate increase at landfill

near future.

Gordon County Administrator Jim Ledbetter told the Board that the original contract with Santek was effective Feb. 1, 2006 with a 20-year term. On Nov. 17, 2010, an amendment was added with an automatic renewal of a 20-year term that makes the expiration date 2046. That renewal was made in conjunction with Santek’s expansion of the landfill by way of increasing the slopes and capacity of the landfill, going vertical with expansion.

According to Ledbetter, Santek’s fees are governed by the contract and they have the right to establish their fees.

“So, I appreciate the concession they are making and sticking to a minimum charge of $21 instead of going with the $36.50 after the first of the year,” said Ledbetter.

“We’ve tried to do what is right for the Gordon County citizens,” said Fuquea.

Ledbetter also pointed out that, since January 2014, Santek has paid Gordon County approximately $ 1.7 million dollars in host fees. “So it’s important to know that we are making money from the landfill through Santek.”

Fuquea noted that all postclosure fees are paid back to the County as well.

According to Fuquea, Santek is just a couple of months away from starting a new cell construction at the landfill, which is planned to begin in early fall. “That’s an expense that we know we’ve got to take care of and it helps the life of the landfill,” said Fuquea. “We will tie on to the hill at the landfill, put a liner down and prepare the bottom for the project.”

The cost of the expansion of the new cell is projected to be between $1.2 and $1.6 million.

Fuquea also mentioned that Redbone Ridge Landfill also offers recycling at no charge to the public. “We take recycling at no charge but are actually having to pay for recycling to get it processed now,” said Fuquea. “We could previously sell it, but now we are actually having to pay a fee per ton to get that recycled. We are going to continue to do that because it’s the right thing to do.”

It was pointed out that for any questions concerning the landfill, including costs, the public could call the landfill at 706-629-5633.

Ledbetter gave an update on financial reporting and significant projects, which included:

-SPLOST and LOST revenue both increased 5.37 percent over the prior year for the month of April.

- The Board of Commissioners will vote on approval of the recommended budget for fiscal year 20182019 at the next meeting on June 19.

-Due to a lack of agreement, a deadline extension to Oct. 31, 2018 has been requested for House Bill 489- Service Delivery Strategy.

- The proposed Comprehensive Plan is under review at Department of Community Affairs. After DCA approval, the Board of Commissioners will need to adopt it by resolution.

- The walls and roof are about complete at the new animal shelter. LG Hausys has offered to donate the countertops for the new