In a decisive move affecting the Laveen community, a local composting business is set to close following legal action by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. The resolution comes as Growers Market has agreed to cease operations, aligning with the county’s stipulations to halt composting activities on the disputed site.
Supervisor Steve Gallardo of District 5 remarked, “This settlement is a big win for Laveen community members. This business could have continued operating for months while we waited around for court hearings to be scheduled. Instead, we took complaints seriously, took action to hold this business responsible, and prioritized results.”
The settlement accelerates the timeline for the removal of all mulching materials by nine days compared to a prior administrative order, now requiring the site to be vacated by March 1 instead of March 10.
Effective immediately, no additional composting materials beyond necessary fuel for trucks and equipment can enter the property. From January 20 onward, all activities involving the grinding or screening of mulch must cease, with related machinery removed. Until the March 1 deadline, Growers Market is allowed to transport remaining materials off-site weekdays between 7 AM and 5 PM. Compliance is monitored through regular inspections and weekly updates to the county. Non-compliance could result in a $1,000 daily fine for the operators.
“Look, I support small businesses and want to see them thrive,” Gallardo continued, “But when their operations start to affect the health and well-being of local residents, we have to get involved and put an end to it. I’m thankful for the sense of closure this settlement provides so Laveen residents can get back to their normal lives.”
The Board’s decision was influenced by inspections in late 2024, prompting action on December 11 to seek an injunction due to zoning violations. The business lacks the necessary special use permit for operating a composting facility in a rural/residential area.
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