Broward’s Recycling Fallout
Pam Bondi’s appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee brings back a significant but underreported Broward County story. Her actions as Florida’s Attorney General played a pivotal role in shaping waste management and recycling practices in the region. Here’s a breakdown of the key events and their implications.
The 2015 Waste Management Deal
In late 2015, Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi approved Waste Management’s $525-million acquisition of Southern Waste System’s (SWS) assets. This decision included:
- The assets of Sun Recycling, which had partnered with Bergeron Environmental to handle recycling for Broward cities.
- Commitments from Waste Management to maintain fair competition and service agreements.
The Fallout:
By 2018, recycling fees skyrocketed by 70–100%, leading to:
- Cities rejecting renewals.
- Sun Recycling facilities closing.
- Increased trash disposal costs and reduced recycling rates.
What Went Wrong?
Key Issue: Waste Management’s monopoly.
Despite promises to maintain service terms, cities and businesses bore the brunt of higher costs. Sun Recycling, rebranded as LGL Recycling, struggled to compete.
Mounting Landfill Concerns:
The Monarch Hill landfill in north Broward grew to 210 feet, with proposals to expand it by 10 more stories. A Broward County Commission vote on this matter is pending.
Pam Bondi’s Role and Silence
The Secret Letter:
In December 2015, Bondi’s office sent a letter to Waste Management attorneys outlining commitments to prevent antitrust issues. However, Broward cities weren’t informed of these terms until 2018 when court documents accidentally revealed the letter.
Lack of Enforcement:
From 2015 to 2019, Bondi took no action to enforce the commitments, despite clear evidence that Waste Management failed to honor its obligations.
Big Money and Political Ties
Campaign Contributions:
Between 2010 and 2015, Waste Management contributed over $150,000 to Republican campaigns, including Bondi’s.
Key Beneficiaries:
- Waste Management secured its $525-million acquisition without interference.
- SWS owner Anthony Lomangino, a Trump ally and Mar-a-Lago member, benefited significantly.
Lomangino’s Influence:
- Contributed $400,000 to Trump’s 2024 campaign Super PAC.
- Hosted high-profile fundraisers at Mar-a-Lago.
Unanswered Questions
Why did Bondi remain silent on enforcing agreements that could have protected Broward cities and residents? Was it political influence or negligence?
Key Takeaways
- Waste Management’s Monopoly: The acquisition deal led to higher costs, reduced recycling, and environmental concerns.
- Pam Bondi’s Inaction: Her silence on enforcing agreements significantly impacted Broward cities.
- Political Contributions: Financial ties between Bondi, Waste Management, and Trump allies raise ethical concerns.
Comment Below:
Do you think political contributions should influence regulatory decisions? How can local governments better protect residents from monopolistic practices?