Commissioners in Miami-Dade County are actively considering the construction of a new solid waste facility to replace the incinerator that ceased operations three years ago. The decision-making process involves determining the site, the types of waste the facility will manage, and the companies that will be involved in its construction. With a crucial workshop scheduled for February 10, 2026, the commission aims to clarify these pivotal issues.
Currently, two companies—FCC Environmental Services and Florida Power & Light Co.—are engaged in discussions about potentially partnering on the project. The commission has directed both firms to explore forming a consortium to streamline their efforts. “Discussions are well underway and are looking very positive,” stated Anthony Rodriguez, the commission chairman. The firms have also provided an undisclosed location for the proposed facility.
The project’s financial aspects remain uncertain, including costs and the timeline for completion. Roy Coley, the county’s chief utilities and regulatory services officer, emphasized the need for clear directives before committing to a specific timeline. “Until we give them clear direction we can’t hold them to an exact date,” he noted during a recent commission meeting.
In a push for a broader scope, Commissioner Raquel Regalado suggested that the facility should accommodate additional waste streams, such as sludge and sargassum. “If we’re going to build something, we should build something for all of the solid waste that is created by our system, not just the waste that we pick up in a trash can,” she stated. This approach aims to ensure that the new facility meets diverse waste management needs.
Conversely, Commissioner Oliver Gilbert III expressed a desire for a more focused proposal, seeking baseline figures for the waste processed by the previous waste-to-energy plant. “We know clearly what we need. The other stuff is what we want,” he remarked. He emphasized the need for a facility that mirrors the capabilities of the previous plant, but with advancements in technology and efficiency.
The commission initially instructed both companies to collaborate on a proposal during a meeting held on December 16, 2025. Should the negotiations for a joint venture prove unsuccessful, the county plans to pursue independent agreements with each company for the development of the waste facility. A complete proposal is expected to be presented to the commission in April 2026.
As Miami-Dade County navigates these discussions, the outcome will significantly impact the region’s waste management strategy and environmental sustainability efforts. The upcoming workshop will be critical for establishing a clear path forward in this vital project.
