Barton has been manager of the landfill since 1999.
According to Barton, the commissioners said they wanted the landfill to move in a different direction.
“They want to go to a loose-fill compaction rather than baling,” she said told the Journal.
Loose-fill compaction is a process in which trash is dumped in an open area and then compacted with specialized equipment.
In the current bale system, trash is unloaded in a warehouse and compacted into huge blocks that are strategically placed in landfill cells.
“When I was hired, my charge was to bring the landfill into compliance using a bale system,” Barton said. “I did that and also brought us into the black financially.”
In her tenure, Barton was recognized by the state for environmental compliance and for rural landfill expertise.
“The state regulators are impressed by our landfill,” she said. “I’ve become an instructor and teach courses to train managers on rural landfill management.”
Recycling was a priority under Barton’s leadership. A composting system that mixes bio solids and yard wastes is popular. Also construction materials are separated for recycling purposes. Innovative solutions about how to repurpose old tires was also seeing success.
The landfill hosted yearly E-waste events and worked closely with Four Corners Recycling to bale cardboard and process recyclable materials collected at area stations.
“Deb’s knowledge and support has been key to our success,” said Lisa Roche, a Four Corners Recycling Initiatve board member.
Barton is well known for her no-nonsense demeanor and strict management style. Her straight-forward approach and cynical sense of humor livened up many commissioner meetings.
And pity the fool who calls the landfill “a dump” within earshot of Barton. The term implies that anything goes, but modern landfills are required to manage hazardous materials properly to protect the environment and public health.
“I’ve worked to change how people view garbage, to take more responsibility about what they are throwing away,” she said. “I’ve given a lot to this community. With my professional staff, we did the job to the best of our abilities.”
Beginning this week, Shak Powers will take over as interim manager of the landfill. Applications for a permanent manager will be accepted in the coming weeks.
jmimiaga@cortezjournal.com