The Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors is set to vote on a crucial project for the Fink Road Landfill on Tuesday. The plan involves expanding the landfill’s gas collection and control system to meet federal environmental standards while ensuring the site operates safely and efficiently.

The landfill, run by the county’s Department of Environmental Resources, needs this upgrade to comply with national emission rules for hazardous air pollutants. These rules are designed to reduce harmful gases released from municipal waste sites. The project will enhance the landfill's current gas collection system, which captures and safely manages these gases.

To create the detailed design, the county hired experts from SCS Engineers. They studied the landfill’s gas levels, worked with landfill staff, and used their findings to design improvements. The proposed upgrades include installing 18 new gas extraction wells and connecting them to the existing system. Additionally, new pipes, pumps, valves, and other equipment will be added to enhance gas collection and ensure proper handling of liquids. Once installed, the area will be refilled with soil and gravel to maintain the landfill’s structure.

The total project budget is set at $1.42 million, which includes a 10% cushion for unexpected costs. The funding for this project is already included in the county’s 2025 budget.

If the supervisors approve the plan, contractors will be invited to bid for the job, with the bid deadline set for May 22. The contract will be awarded to the most cost-effective bidder, and work is expected to move forward soon after.

The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which means it meets environmental safety requirements without additional assessments. This exemption allows the county to prioritize protecting the environment while streamlining the process.

The Board is meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at 1010 10th Street in Modesto.