Developer Backs Plan to Put Class III Landfill Near Memphis School

“When people hear about this, they think we’re wanting to place garbage right on top of the school, and that just simply isn’t the case,” said Steve Williamson, company president.

The proposed development is considered a Class III landfill, which is used for demolition waste such as unrecyclable concrete and other building materials like steel, lumber and bricks. It would not hold hazardous materials or household waste. According to the company’s website, it would be an odorless landfill with “superior appearance” and would serve as an economic asset to the community.

… It’s the second time the company has sought to place a landfill on the 32-acre site, having pulled its application last year following public outcry about its proposed location next to a school.

If approved this year, the development would be the second landfill located near the elementary school. Memphis Wrecking Co. already operates a 24-acre landfill adjacent to the proposed expansion but located further from the school and not visible from the campus. That landfill also holds mostly construction and demolition debris, especially unrecyclable concrete.