MONROE COUNTY (WOAY) – A fire at the H.A.M. Sanitary landfill in Monroe County has been mostly contained after igniting on Friday night.
Around 8 p.m. on August 2, a blaze erupted in a shredded tire pile at the landfill.
Local fire departments from Monroe, Mercer, Summers and Giles counties worked tirelessly to control the fire, which has now been 95% extinguished.
The Federal Environmental Protection Agency and Homeland Security were quickly notified, with the EPA’s mobile command center monitoring air quality throughout the incident.
In response to the intense firefighting demands, Governor Jim Justice authorized the use of tankers from the West Virginia Department of Transportation to aid in the efforts.
A contracted company from the landfill’s owners is currently leading the firefighting operations.
The Monroe County Commission has assured residents that no taxpayer dollars are being used for this situation; costs are covered by the landfill’s insurance.
They also clarified that the landfill’s revenue, primarily from minimal taxes and recycling fees, does not impact the county budget.
The commission wants to assure the public that it has been actively working with the WV Division of Environmental Protection, including pushing for public meetings on landfill permits.
They expresssed gratitude to local firefighters and emergency personnel for their dedication and ongoing support.
