Residents Choose Sides In Landfill Debate

By Doug Wernet

SUNLAND PARK– The New Mexico Environment Department started public hearings on Wednesday to decide if a landfill in this border townshould remain.

People for and against the Camino Real Landfill argued if the dump should be around for the next 10 years.

Every 10 years, landfill officials must apply to the state to be able to stay another decade. The operation faces very vocal opposition this year. Those who don’t want it in their community said it is hazardous to the public’s health. Others said the operation has simply torn their community apart.

“We’re concerned with the lack of economic development in our community because a lot of industries do not want to ut their money next to a landfill,” said Olga Arguelles, who opposes the landfill.

However, Camino Real officials said they think their operation will be around for a long time.

“Once we review our application in detail, all of our environmental safeguards in place, hopefully the public will be comfortable with our operation,” said Lee Wilson, a spokesman for the landfill. “It’s our goal to be a viable member of the local business commuinity.”

New Mexico officials will hear arguments over the next 10 days, and make a decision on the landfill’s future inthree months.