Buford commissioners deny request for inert landfill near Lake Lanier

Buford City Commissioners voted Monday to deny a proposed inert landfill near a creek that feeds into Lake Lanier. A portion of the 27.11-acres at 6699 and 6673 McEver Road slopes downhill toward Big Creek which feeds into the lake. The Buford Planning Board recommended denial late last month.

Numerous residents, developers and representatives from the Chattahoochee Riverkeepers expressed concern that while this type of landfill is restricted to earth and earth-like materials, other more toxic materials are often found illegally dumped and could affect the local drinking water supply at Lake Lanier. Several expressed concern that a nearby landfill would make it much more difficult to find interested retail, office or home developers.

City Commission Chairman Phillip Beard expressed concern that despite the landfill denial, the city does need a nearby landfill for construction debris.