Landfill Good Neighbor Policy

About the Program

Category: Civic Education and Public Information (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

OC Waste & Recycling manages three of the nation’s largest active landfills and 20 closed former refuse disposal stations. What were once remotely-sited landfills have become essential urban waste management infrastructure. Homes, retail developments and even designated wilderness areas are now close neighbors. Likewise, smaller closed sites--unrecognizable but for vents and occasional small flares—are nestled among homes in neighborhoods throughout Orange County. In 2012 OC Waste & Recycling undertook a strategic, proactive Good Neighbor policy with regard to all operations. The policy is most active at the three active landfills, where odor- and bird- control measures have been put in place with great success. Neighbors at the closed landfills also have benefitted from the policy through planned events that allow access to the closed resources. The Good Neighbor Policy is the foundation for success in continued landfill operations. Through our timely responsiveness to neighbors’ concerns OC Waste & Recycling demonstrates our commitment to the Policy. In developing direct connections with residents, OC Waste & Recycling has established a context in which to communicate potentially difficult messages, engage in meaningful and relevant discussions with neighbors and pave the way for continued good neighbor relationships.