A Landfill Controversy with Statewide Implications
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
GREENSBORO, N.C. - The possible reopening of a landfill in Greensboro is generating a stink around the state, as groups express concern over its impact on the community and economy. The White Street Landfill in Greensboro was closed to municipal waste five years ago, but now the city may try to reopen the landfill to cut costs. The move challenges a 2007 state law that denies permits for solid waste facilities if they would have a disproportionate effect on African-American communities.
Community activist Goldie Wells is concerned the decision will stunt economic growth.
"We're quite concerned because we are an African-American community. The growth of Greensboro hinges on what happens with White Street Landfill."
Wells says that the eastern part of Greensboro, where the landfill is located, has the most potential for further growth, if the landfill remains closed to city garbage. If the city is able to move forward in spite of the statute, other municipalities around the state could follow suit, according to the Southern Coalition for Social Justice. That organization is helping concerned citizens fight the White Street landfill. The city is expected to make a final decision in June.
Staff attorney Chris Brook with the Southern Coalition for Social Justice says this fight reaches far beyond the Greensboro city limits.
"It's a real opportunity legally to protect the communities that have traditionally been where these undesirable facilities end up being sited."
Even if it's found that the state statute doesn't apply to this situation, the community may find protection under Title VI (6) of the Federal Civil Rights Act.
get more stories like this via email

Social Issues
Research is emerging about the secondary trauma school staff members face after helping students during the pandemic. As summer moves forward…
Health and Wellness
A Florida judge plans to put a hold on the state's new, 15-week abortion ban, set to take effect today. He said it is unconstitutional and will issue …
Environment
The Environmental Protection Agency now has fewer tools to fight climate change, after the U.S. Supreme Court stripped the agency of its authority to …
Social Issues
Three projects in Idaho have been selected to receive grants from the AARP Community Challenge. Among them is the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial in …
Environment
Montanans get a sense of what soil health is like on farms and ranches across the state with Northern Plains Resource Council's soil crawls. The …
Social Issues
A new tool aims to help older adults in Arkansas and beyond who receive Medicare track what happens at their doctor appointments. It also can help …
Social Issues
A campaign in Maine is gathering signatures to replace the state's investor-owned energy grid with a consumer-owned utility. Central Maine Power (…
Social Issues
Another important U.S. Supreme Court ruling this month has been overshadowed by the controversy about overturning abortion rights. Legal experts say …