Landfill Proposal Dumped

By Jessica Taloney Reporter

Mobile County Commissioners dump the idea of turning a dirt pit into a landfill. Neighbors are breathing a sigh of relief. Landfill Proposal Dumped

Published: Tue, October 09, 2007 - 5:42 pm Last Updated: Tue, October 09, 2007 - 6:01 pm

Jessica Taloney

A sixty acre dirt pit in North Mobile County will not become a landfill.
Mobile County Commissioners dumped a proposal that would have allowed the pit to be a dumping ground for construction debris after more than one hundred neighbors signed a petition in protest.
"I'm so glad. Thank God," said Johnnie Phillips, who is president of the Fox Creek subdivision's homeowners association. The landfill would have been literally on the other side of his fence.
"I was concerned, very much concerned," he said.
If commissioners had approved the landfill permit, L & J Dirt, Inc. would have filled the existing dirt pit with debris from construction sites. Larry Presley, the owner of the company, said he understands neighbors concerns, but said landfills have to go somewhere.
"I don't agree with the decision," said Presley. "I realize a lot of politics is in a decision like this," he said.
But, whether it's politics, persistence, or answered prayers, neighbors are glad it's over.
"My birthday is next week," said 76-year old Lamar Jones. "That's the best birthday party they could have given me."
As late as Monday afternoon, commissioners were considering delaying their decision for two more weeks, but because the permit was applied for nearly 90 days ago a decision had to be made now or state law would have considered it approved by default.