Middle Point Provides Containers for Storm Cleanup, Extends Hours to Accept and Track Debris

Mike Classen, general manager of Middle Point Landfill, briefed county commissioners Thursday evening on the efforts of Middle Point to help those impacted by recent severe weather.

In the early hours of April 1, an EF-2 tornado touched by in nearby Readyville, leaving behind a wide path of destruction in Rutherford and Cannon Counties. Since April 1, Middle Point has extended its hours of operations, opening at 3 a.m. and closing at 6 p.m., to accommodate the surplus of storm debris and avoid overflow at county convenience centers, allowing them to resume normal operations for residents. In partnership with Rutherford County Solid Waste, Middle Point has deployed containers to the area of impact and accepted over 1,400 tons of debris totaling at more than $100,000 in disposal. Middle Point is prepared to absorb this cost.

“Middle Point Landfill has been a tremendous help to Rutherford County and Cannon County in accepting this material for us,” Rutherford County Solid Waste Director Bishop Wagener said. “We are grateful for their volunteerism and the spirit of cooperation.”

“When Bishop called me two Sundays ago, and we learned of the incredible efforts the county and his solid waste department were taking to help support our neighbors in Readyville with cleanup, we immediately offered assistance to help ensure that debris had a rapid response disposal destination,” said Classen.

Classen continued, “There is a lot of noise out there about Middle Point, but this is one example of how we are a unique and valuable asset to this county with the means and desire to support our community. We are committed to Rutherford County, we are an active member of this community, and we are fully committed to helping our neighbors get back on their feet.”

Middle Point has also tracked incoming storm debris to aid Rutherford and Cannon Counties in their disaster relief applications.