HomeMy WebLinkAboutWaste to Energy Project Staff ReportTo: BOCC
CC: Tom Anderson, Bonnie Baker
Date: January 21, 2014
Re: Status update on WTEG contract
The proposed contract with Waste to Energy Group (WTEG) will be on your January 29 meeting
agenda. I wanted to give you an overall review of the process we have been conducting and
discuss any of your questions or concerns at your work session tomorrow afternoon.
The Proposal. WTEG has submitted a proposal to develop a landfill gas to energy project at
Knott Landfill. The project proposes to use a patented steam injection technology to
increase gas production significantly, and to capture the gas and convert it into energy
projects. The scope of the project and proposed uses of the gas have varied over the two
plus years we have been looking at it, the project has been narrowed to include the lined
portions of Knott Landfill and conversions of the landfill gas into liquid fuel products.
Review. The project has been reviewed by a third party engineering firm (HDR) who
concluded that although they question whether the project will generate the volumes of gas
that WTEG claims, they see no negative environmental impacts associated with the project
and feel that the County can be well protected through contract terms. HDR identified
numerous contract terms that they recommended be incorporated into the contract and that
has been done.
Legal Counsel Review. Mark Pilliod then reviewed the contract and made a number of
changes and additions. Many of these changes were clarifying in nature and addressed
contract form and organization. There were significant additions regarding bonding and
insurance
Public Outreach. The County has conducted three public meetings on the proposal, one
which was attended by the Commissioners. In addition, Mr. David Poboisk a neighbor of the
landfill who has voiced concerns conducted two public meetings as well. We have
addressed his concerns when possible. The third party review was a suggestion that he
made.
Future Public Input. Citizens will have the opportunity to provide comments on January 29,
2014 when you consider signature of the contract. In addition, there will be a chance to
comment during the land use process as well as the DEQ permitting process. Dates for
those opportunities have not been established yet. Mr. Poboisk has been provided with a
copy of the HDR report and been made aware of these input points. I have also contacted
the School District with this information.
Public Procurement Process. This contract is considered a sole source contract due to the
patented technology that is proposed. We have published the appropriate notice as
required by ORS 279B.075, OAR 137-047-0275 and DCC 2.37.040C. The appropriate
period for comment or protest has expired and none were received.