GFL receives green light for landfill expansion in Wisconsin

The Eau Claire City Council in Wisconsin has granted a long-awaited green light for the expansion of the Seven Mile Creek Landfill in the town of Seymour.

In the newly approved agreement, Vaughn, Canada-based GFL Environmental Inc.—owner and operator of the landfill—plans to increase the height of the landfill by 33 feet.

As reported by WQOW, the proposed expansion has faced heavy pushback from neighboring residents who felt the “sight and smell of the landfill” was already too much to handle. In the final agreement finalized Nov. 22, residents within a mile of the site were offered annual payments ranging from $500 to $2,000, depending on their proximity to the landfill.

The agreement also includes property protections if nearby residents ever struggle to sell their homes.

During the city’s 2023 budget meeting, Councilmember Kate Felton said that for years she'd been hearing from neighbors who were concerned about making a deal with a private company.

“There was a time it felt like we didn't have any sort of negotiating power, that the residents there would have to just put up with what they were given,” she said. “I'm just really, really impressed with how this turned out and really appreciative that we've had an opportunity to be able to show real stewardship to the land and for the residents.”

GFL also has agreed to pay increased tonnage fees to help the city and county repair roads damaged by heavy trucks going in and out of the landfill.