§159I-2. Findings and purpose

The General Assembly finds that units of local government need a source of funds to implement solid waste management programs.  Units of local government will confront a crisis in solid waste management in the near future.  Within five years of the creation of this program, one-third of all the landfills in this State will have reached their capacity.  Many local governments do not have the funds to meet:

(1)        The increased costs of constructing new landfills that meet current standards for the protection of the environment; or

(2)        The cost of constructing a local or regional incinerator that would serve to reduce the volume of waste to be landfilled; or

(3)        The costs of implementing alternative programs to reduce the amount of waste generated, to decrease the volume of waste that is generated, or to recover or to recycle that part of the waste stream that can be recovered or used for another purpose.

The General Assembly finds that comprehensive solid waste management programs at a local or regional level are needed in order to preserve the quality of North Carolina's groundwater.  It is the purpose of the General Assembly to facilitate the implementation of local and regional solid waste management programs by establishing a loan fund for financing the capital expenses of these programs.  The General Assembly seeks to encourage and assist units of local government to continue to voluntarily provide solid waste collection and disposal for their citizens, thereby maintaining a clean and healthful environment and an adequate supply of clean water.

(1989, c. 756, s. 1.)