Potential Ordnance Forces Molokaʻi Landfill Closure

By Wendy Osher

The Molokaʻi Landfill will be closed until further notice following the discovery of potentially unexploded ordnance at the facility on Monday, Jan. 13, 2014.

County Communications Director Rod Antone said the Molokaʻi Police Department has been notified and is “monitoring and securing the facility.”

“The Molokaʻi Police Department has contacted the military disposal unit and will notify the county when the ‘all clear’ has been given,” said Antone in an email communication.

Earlier today, county officials said a staffing shortage was expected to result in the delayed opening of the facility on Thursday, Jan. 16; however, the discovery today has left the facility closed until further notice starting tomorrow, Jan. 14.

“At this time there is no estimated time for returning to full service at the Molokaʻi Landfill,” said Antone.