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‘Saipan landfill Cell No. 1 now at 80%
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Posted on Mar 30 2023
Ray N. Yumul
Acting Department of Public Works secretary Ray N. Yumul said DPW’s Solid Waste Division needs attention as the Saipan landfill’s Cell No. 1 is now about 80% full.
“It will need to be capped, similar to [what was done with] the old Puerto Rico dump, now called the Gov. Eloy Inos Peace Park,” said Yumul during the Senate Executive Appointments and Government Investigations Committee’s confirmation hearing on his nomination to serve as DPW secretary.
He said it will cost DPW over $4.5 million to cap the landfill.
“My concern is that my office is constantly being inundated with requests for tipping fee waivers from government offices and municipalities,” he said.
This loss of income impacts the ability of the government to build up funds to properly close, expand, and manage the landfill cells and transfer stations, Yumul said.
He said he needs to remind these government departments and agencies that they have an obligation under Title 40 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations to protect the environment.
At the hearing, Yumul received overwhelming support for his nomination from several DPW officials, government officials, and members in the community.
