A resolution requesting the mayor to consider other lots that will serve as a dumpsite at a cheaper price while negotiations are on-going with the Lopez family concerning their property in Brgy. Felisa, Bacolod City, is being proposed by Councilor Homer Bais.

Ester Lopez of the Dynasty Agricultural Corporation has demanded for just compensation from the city for the use of their 7-hectare property as a dumpsite fixed at P600 per square meters, or a total of about P42 million.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia said the city is open to other offers as long as they comply with requirements of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. He said there were other areas which the city had wanted to use as a dumpsite before because these were more convenient. However, these areas did not pass the DENR requirements, he added.

The city was given by the DENR notice to proceed with the use of the Lopez property, Leonardia said.

Councilor Greg Gasataya, chairman of the Committee on Environment and Ecology, said they are in the last phase of reviewing documents concerning the dumpsite. He said they have recovered documents dating back to 2001 which they are now reviewing, especially proposals concerning a landfill site. They will submit their recommendation to the mayor, he added.

Aside from the Lopez property, the mayor has instructed them to study other offers for a possible dumpsite, Gasataya also said.

He added that they believe the price of P600 per square meters being offered by the Lopez family can still be reduced.

Leonardia said it is not the amount the city may consider, it is the report of the Appraisal Committee that will guide them because it is the competent body supposed to determine what is the reasonable price for the property.*CGS

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