HELP Group opposing dump seeks public hearings

HELP is getting an enthusiastic response, a spokeswoman says.
By TIM YOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
HUBBARD -- A citizens group opposed to a landfill in the township is circulating petitions to make sure its position is heard.
Joni Dobran, spokeswoman for Hubbard Environmental & amp; Land Preservation, or HELP, said the group is circulating the petitions in the city and township.
The petition calls on the Trumbull County Board of Health, township trustees and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to hold public hearings on the issue.
Also, the petition calls on the government entities to keep HELP posted of any additional requests for permits to operate a landfill.
"We've had an enthusiastic response," Dobran said, noting that nobody has turned down the petition circulators.
Background
In May, Trans Rail America Inc., a Maryland-based company, filed an application with the county health board to operate a 20.5-acre construction and demolition landfill along Drummond Avenue near Mount Everett Road.
Some of the 172 acres owned by Trans Rail are wetlands.
The board of health will make a decision on the application at its Aug. 18 meeting when those in favor and opposed to the facility can voice their opinions.
Those circulating the petitions are asking for contributions so professional help can be hired to oppose the landfill.
The door-to-door canvassing, Dobran said, will continue for the next few weeks. At the same time, people can contribute to HELP.
Dobran said if residents feel uncomfortable contributing at the door, they are being given a coupon to send money to the group.
Also, HELP is continuing with its T-shirt sales. So far, 200 have been sold at $10 each. Also, the group is selling yard signs opposing the facility for $10 and $20, based on the size of the sign.
HELP's next meeting is at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Hubbard City Hall chambers.
yovich@vindy.com