2-Murfreesboro lawmakers oppose proposed landfill permit change

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – State Rep. Bryan Terry, MD, R-Murfreesboro, and Senate Deputy Chairman Shane Reeves, R-Murfreesboro, expressed solidarity Tuesday with the City of Murfreesboro’s challenge to the Browning-Ferris Industries (BFI) proposal Waste Systems of Tennessee permit amendment for the Middle Point landfill.

In a letter to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) last week, Murfreesboro officials outlined several concerns regarding the change, including environmental impacts, significant odors and drainage issues.

“As healthcare professionals, we believe this change could potentially have a negative impact on the environment, public health and well-being,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement. “We agree with the city’s assessment that this proposed change should be viewed as significant and that residents deserve the opportunity to provide input.”

The change to the permit would allow BFI to place waste above the recreational area containing aluminum waste. City officials argue the change should be treated as a major change, allowing for a period of public comment.

Murfreesboro officials believe the change could impact the proper disposal of contaminated fluids and that BFI will not be able to prevent odors from entering the community, among other significant impacts to public health and quality of life.

Both lawmakers contacted TDEC Commissioner David Salyers and expressed concerns about the proposal.