Miami-Dade County officials are in the process of determining key aspects for a new solid waste plant, which is intended to replace the former incinerator that ceased operations three years ago. As discussions progress, the county is assessing potential partners, site locations, and the types of waste that the new facility will manage. A commission workshop scheduled for February 10, 2026, aims to clarify these critical issues.
The future of the project remains uncertain, including its overall cost and timeline. According to Roy Coley, the county’s chief utilities and regulatory services officer, “Until we give them clear direction we can’t hold them to an exact date,” emphasizing the need for precise guidance to move forward.
During a recent meeting, Commissioner Raquel Regalado advocated for a more comprehensive approach to waste management. She suggested that the new facility should accommodate not only traditional waste but also materials like 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.
On the other hand, Commissioner Oliver Gilbert III expressed his desire for a baseline figure reflecting the capacity of the previous waste-to-energy plant. He remarked, “We know clearly what we need. The other stuff is what we want,” indicating a preference for a plant that meets functional requirements while aiming for improvements in efficiency and sustainability. “Let me know how much the steak costs,” he added, using a metaphor to describe his focus on core operational needs.
Currently, FCC Environmental Services and Florida Power & Light Co. have separately proposed to develop the new waste center. Following a commission directive on December 16, 2025, both companies were encouraged to explore the possibility of forming a consortium. Commission Chairman Anthony Rodriguez noted that “discussions are well under way and are looking very positive.” Both companies have provided updates on their negotiations, with FCC sharing an undisclosed location proposed for the plant.
If the discussions for a joint operation do not materialize, Miami-Dade County plans to engage with each company individually to select a waste facility developer. A comprehensive proposal from the companies is expected to be presented to the commission in April 2026.
As the county navigates these decisions, the future of waste management in Miami-Dade is poised for significant change, with potential benefits for both the environment and community health.
