The Polk County Commission stated that it is ready for the county to take legal action against the operators of BS Ranch and Farm in Lakeland.
Commissioners approved an agenda item in their biweekly meeting authorizing the county to join any administrative hearings or other legal actions to support a recent state order denying the renewal of a permit for BS Ranch, which recycles human biosolid waste, expired foods, and mulch into soil that is sold to growers.
Local residents have complained for at least five years about foul odors near the facility.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection issued a notice last month that it would not renew a permit for BS Ranch to operate. The company is entitled to petition for an administrative proceeding to appeal the order.
In approving a recommendation from county staff, commissioners gave permission for the county to “seek legal remedies” for violations of any laws, regulations, or codes if the denial of the permit renewal becomes final.