County Executive Elrich Raises Concerns Over Long Term Costs of County Incinerator

Montgomery County is reviewing how it manages trash and recycling as part of a broader effort to modernize its solid waste system and meet long-term environmental and operational goals.

One option under consideration is closing the Resource Recovery Facility in Dickerson, which currently burns trash to generate energy. County officials say potential changes could affect solid waste fees, environmental justice, and greenhouse gas emissions. To gather public input, the County is holding a series of open houses in Germantown, Rockville, and online in early March, along with an online survey. Residents may also request language interpretation services for the meetings.

County Executive Marc Elrich said the current incinerator does not align with the County’s zero waste goals and would require costly upgrades if it remains in operation, while alternatives such as exporting trash could also be expensive. Department of Environmental Protection Director Jennifer Macedonia said officials are evaluating options to ensure future waste management is reliable, affordable, environmentally responsible, and equitable. As part of its Aiming for Zero Waste initiative, the County aims to maintain dependable service, reduce environmental and social impacts, and use a transparent, data-driven process to guide future decisions.