Doral-inspired bill blocking new waste-to-energy plants near populated areas clears first Senate stop

Two years after Miami-Dade’s waste-to-energy plant burnt to a crisp, new safeguards may be in place to protect residents from another blaze.

Legislation (SB 1008) by Hialeah Gardens Republican Sen. Bryan Ávila blocking any future waste incineration facility from rising within a half-mile of populated areas received unanimous support in its first committee.

Ávila stressed the change wouldn’t affect existing facilities. He said he’s open to more allowances near commercial properties after Miami-Dade and the Florida Waste-to-Energy Coalition opposed the bill.

Doral residents have fought against hosting a new facility. So have those in Miramar, where a nearby site was proposed.

– Jesse Scheckner, Florida Politics