PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management has announced that the Central Landfill Action Committee will hold its first organizational meeting on Wednesday, November 17 from 4-6 p.m. at the Johnston Middle School Library. The meeting is open to the public.

This ad hoc committee is being formed to advise state, federal, and local authorities on appropriate actions to be taken concerning issues such as odor and erosion problems that have been occurring at the Central Landfill. The committee will also serve as a vehicle for providing outreach and dialogue with the community on a regular, ongoing basis.

The committee will consist of representatives from DEM, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the state Department of Health, Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation, the community surrounding the landfill, as well as local elected officials and Johnston Mayor William Macera. The formation of the committee was one of the major action items suggested by attendees at the October 21^st public meeting at Johnston High School.

Wednesday's meeting agenda includes a discussion of the purpose, goals and scope of the committee; committee membership; and updates on air monitoring and action items stemming from the October 21^st public meeting at Johnston High School. The meeting will also provide an opportunity for public input and a question and answer session.

For additional information about the committee, contact Terry Gray at 222-4700 ext. 7100.