State considers privatizing landfill

Experts say it could run more efficiently

Updated: Tuesday, 03 Nov 2009, 10:24 AM EST
Published : Tuesday, 03 Nov 2009, 10:04 AM EST

JOHNSTON, R.I. (AP/WPRI) - Rhode Island is considering whether a private company could run the state landfill better than the government.

The state began soliciting proposals Monday, exploring the feasibility of leasing or selling the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corp., which runs the landfill and recycling facility.

Executive Director Michael O'Connell tells The Providence Journal that a private contractor may be able to fun the facility more efficiently - saving the state money.

According to O'Connell, the landfill's revenues have fallen from $70 million to $45 million in the fiscal year that ended last June.

The landfill has been plagued by scandal, including the recent squandering of funds, and alleged cronyism and overtime scams.

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