FAQs
Isn’t it true that landfills adversely affect the value of neighboring residential properties?
Several studies have been conducted to review the impact that landfills may have on nearby residential property values. One in particular that has been cited is a June 2003 residential property study entitled, “The Impact of Open Space and Potential Local Disamenities on Residential Property Values in Berks County, Pennsylvania.”
This study was statistically based on a sample population of residential homes in Berks County sold between 1998 and 2002, but it excluded homes located within the City of Reading and within one mile of New Morgan Borough. We believe the findings of this study are not representative of homes near Conestoga. We’re also concerned about the validity of the conclusions with regard to what impact a landfill in Berks County—and specifically Conestoga Landfill—could have on residential property values. In fact, Conestoga was specifically excluded from the study. The state Environmental Hearing Board said in one of its decisions that this study was “not convincing.” (County of Berks v. DEP, et al, EHB Docket No. 2002-155-MG, March 2005)
In order to make every effort to be a good neighbor, Conestoga Landfill has expanded the coverage area of our existing property protection plan. It now covers all residences with a half-mile of the facility. If our expansion is approved, all of Mountaineer Village also will be covered. The property protection plan enables eligible residential homeowners to be compensated for any potential loss in the market value of their homes.