Collier County Approves Landfill Expansion for 80 Years

Collier County commissioners have given the green light to an eastward expansion of the county landfill, a decision made on May 12, 2026. This unanimous vote supports recommendations from outside consultants and county staff, who identified an eastward development as the most technically and financially sound option.

The approved plan involves a three-phase expansion, which will ultimately add 183 acres to the landfill's current 311-acre site. This strategic growth is projected to extend the landfill's operational capacity by nearly 80 years, ensuring long-term waste management for the growing county.

This significant undertaking comes with a substantial price tag, with land acquisition costs alone estimated at $11.28 million. By obtaining permits for all three phases simultaneously, the county aims to streamline the regulatory process and manage costs effectively.

Kari Hodgson, Director of the Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Division, highlighted the necessity of this expansion. The existing landfill has about 35 years of capacity remaining, but long lead times for land purchases, land use changes, and multi-agency permitting necessitate proactive planning. She emphasized that not expanding would lead to substantially higher user rates and increased vulnerability to market volatility.

Environmental advocates and business leaders voiced their support for the expansion. Brad Cornell of Audubon Florida cited the difficulty of siting new landfills, making expansion of the existing facility a logical choice. Business representatives Howard Murrell and Matthew Hunter underscored the landfill's importance for economic stability and supporting local jobs.