Seneca Falls Board introduces solid waste law

Seneca Falls Town Supervisor Greg Lazzaro might not have been present – but that didn’t prevent the board from moving forward within the landfill debate that has dominated recent meetings. Local Law #7 of 2016, or the “Town of Seneca Falls Waste Disposal Law,” was introduced by Annette Lutz, seconded by Mary Sarrator, and unanimously approved by the four board members in attendance. The next step will be a public hearing on the local law, which was written by attorney Doug Zamelis. While no date has been set yet for that hearing, if it is anything like recent board meetings in Seneca Falls – attendance will be high.At Tuesday’s meeting, a number of speakers delivered powerful messages on the future of Seneca Falls – as well as the status of the Seneca Meadows Landfill. Kyle Black and Mark Benjamin of Seneca Meadows spoke at the meeting, voicing support of the landfilling operation to contrast the overwhelming majority of those in attendance who were against landfilling in the Finger Lakes. Black also spoke about the modifications being made at the 414 site, where a dedicated turning lane is being constructed to ensure a safer turn into and out of the facility.Both also spoke about the jobs, which would be lost – if Seneca Meadows ceased operating. However, multiple speakers – including Brad Jones, Seneca Falls Supervisor Stephen Churchill, Barbara Reese, and others – all spoke to the core problems at play, according to opponents. “We don’t want more trash,” one resident said as she addressed the board. “We’ve had enough,” she continued explaining that the landfilling operations in Seneca County “come at too great a cost.”In other action on Tuesday:- The Town Board tabled multiple purchases, which were brought to the board by Seneca Falls Commissioner of Parks and Recreation Jim Spina for a second month in a row. The board requested more information on warranties and other details around the equipment being purchased.- The Town Board also approved a series of renovations, which are slated to begin on the band stand in Seneca Falls People’s Park in the coming months. A number of upgrades will be made to the band stand, while preserving its historic nature.- The Town Board also heard from Barton & Loguidice on a potential solution for the docks along the canal in Seneca Falls. The firm is looking for a more sustainable short-term and long-term plan to deal with the beating they take throughout the winter.On Thursday, FingerLakes1.com will have an in-depth look at proposed Local Law #7, as well as comment from Seneca Meadows regarding the proposed law.