When it comes to landfills, Barton County is proof that NIMBY (not in my backyard) is not a universal concept.  Here, our commissioners understand the value of having a landfill nearby, accessible to county residents.  The news that our landfill’s lifetime has been doubled to 60 years from it’s previous 30 is fantastic news.
It wasn’t that long ago private landfill companies in Kansas were pressing legislators to make it difficult if not impossible for county landfills to operate.  Their aim was to grab more business for themselves.  Luckily, the insanity of expecting private citizens in far-flung parts of the state to travel long distances to dispose of their construction waste and other waste was realized.  
Having a local, accessible landfill available helps ensure that our rural areas are less apt to become dumping grounds.  They also protect the public health, providing safe places to dispose of dangerous chemicals and other polluting trash.  
The forward-thinking county commission made a good call in advancing the $149,500 needed by engineers to make sure the landfill will be around for future generations.