By Kathy Campbell, for the CVPost
Representation is just about the most fundamental part of living in a democracy.
We all want to have a voice in the decision-making process. The best decisions are made when all stakeholders are represented fairly. We want our concerns to be addressed and to have value, whether it is at home, in the workplace or with local government.
The Seven Mile Creek Neighborhood consists of residents who live within one mile of the Seven Mile Creek Landfill, operated by Advanced Disposal. Our neighborhood is similar to every neighborhood in the Chippewa Valley, made up of teachers, truck drivers, electricians, doctors, artists, accountants, mothers, fathers and children.
No voice in landfill matters
One important difference, though, is we aren’t allowed a voice and vote in matters that directly impact our lives! Ever since the County sold the landfill in 1996, our voices and concerns have been systematically suppressed, dismissed and disregarded.
Municipalities receive money for every ton of waste collected, but continue to overlook the growing concerns we face due to the landfill’s continual expansion. As Advanced Disposal collects more garbage from the area, the region, Minnesota and Iowa, our quality of life is further diminished.
Their gain is our loss! With another proposed expansion – this one adding 12.5 acres to the east and 60 feet in height, rising to 1,132 feet across 22.3 acres – our health and financial future are at risk.
Advanced Disposal offers more elsewhere
Last year, we learned that Advanced Disposal provides better conditions, compensation and property value protection in 12 other Wisconsin cities and towns in five counties. But next to nothing for us? Why not? We need protection from this billion dollar company now!
Please add your voice to ours. Tell your Town, City and County officials and Advanced Disposal to treat us fairly! Ask them to negotiate to protect the families and property of the Seven Mile Creek Neighborhood.
Kathy Campbell has lived in the Town of Seymour since 1996. She formed the Seven Mile Creek Neighborhood in 2019 to inform and unite the residents living within one mile of the Advanced Disposal landfill. She was a school counselor at Northwoods Elementary School in Eau Claire until retiring several years ago.