Landfill operator to give odor update

JOHNSTON, R.I. (AP) - Officials in charge of Rhode Island's central landfill in Johnston are set to brief state lawmakers on efforts to eliminate an odor that's prompted widespread complaints.

A special legislative task force created to investigate the rotten-egg odor is scheduled to meet Tuesday at the Statehouse.

The panel expects to get an update on the problem from landfill operators and state environmental officials. It's also looking at the ways that other landfills limit odors.

Following hundreds of complaints from residents, the landfill's operators installed new wells and flares to collect and burn the gas blamed for the stench.

The city of Johnston sued the landfill last month seeking an end to the odor which for months has plagued residents as far away as Attleboro, Mass.