NEWPORT-Compactors and repairs at the Cosby Convenience Center dominated discussion during Monday's Landfill Committee meeting at the Courthouse Annex.

Cocke County Landfill Director Ronnie Allen informed the committee that trash compactors at Del Rio and Cosby are having fluids spill out under the compacting units, creating foul odors and resulting in the collection of maggots.

"Some of the stuff is running out and it's under the compactors," said Allen. "It would help if we could wash it out from under there but we don't have water."

Although waterlines are close by, officials said it would cost an estimated $525 to tap on to the lines.

Patrick McGuffin of Tidi Waste suggested putting larger pans under the compactors to collect the runoff.

Committee member Andrew Fowler suggested Allen and McGuffin examine the situation and determine the best way to address the problem.

Members also discussed gate and fence repairs at the Cosby Convenience Center.

Officials had gotten two quotes for replacing the gates and upgrading fencing at the center.

Depending on the amount of work performed, estimates ranged from $4,500 to $7,700 on making repairs. Committee members, however, said they would prefer getting quotes for similar work...primarily replacing the gates, upgrading some of the fencing and installing slats for privacy.

Committee members finally agreed to have Allen meet with both local companies that submitted quotes and obtain new estimates for specific work.

Bill Costner, who was elected as the new committee chairman Monday, also asked if Keep Cocke County Beautiful could possibly obtain funding to help with the project. Costner also asked if KCCB might be able to provide help in installing the slats.

Cocke County Mayor Iliff McMahan Jr. said he would contact KCCB to see if any funding or assistance is available.

Finance Director Anne Williams advised the committee that money for convenience centers would come from the same line item that funds compactors and open containers.

McMahan said he would like any action by the committee to also go through the Finance Committee due to tight funding this year.

The Landfill Committee will meet again at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 5 in the Courthouse Annex to re-examine issues discussed Monday.