CORVALLIS, OR – The Benton County Board of Commissioners has approved the controversial expansion of the Coffin Butte Landfill by a narrow 2-1 vote, reversing a previous recommendation to deny the proposal.

Commissioner Gabe Shepard introduced a motion to deny the application, citing unresolved issues such as noise, odor, groundwater contamination, litter, and traffic. Shepard argued that Republic Services had not met the necessary burden of proof under Benton County land use code.

"Republic Services has failed to demonstrate compliance with the required approval criteria," Shepard said.

Despite sharing Shepard's concerns, Board Chair Nancy Wyse did not second his motion. Wyse expressed her personal opposition to the expansion but emphasized her obligation to follow Oregon land use law

See Full Page