San Angelo Urges FEMA-Mandated Debris Sorting as Flooded Landfill Limits Capacity

SAN ANGELO, TX — San Angelo’s landfill remains underwater after historic flooding, forcing city officials to halt most dumping and asking residents to sort flood debris properly or risk losing federal aid.

“We have to go by FEMA mandate guidelines,” Mayor Tom Thompson said. 

"If we do not follow these FEMA-mandated guidelines on how to sort and dispose of this trash properly, the total cost will be on the backs of our citizens," said Shane Kelton, the city’s Executive Director of Public Works.

Only Republic Services trucks are currently allowed into the landfill while 24-hour pumping continues to clear water from the site’s new cell, city leaders said in a newly released video featuring Thompson, Kelton and City Manager Daniel Valenzuela.

Residents clearing damaged homes must separate debris into specific piles: construction materials like sheetrock and lumber; white goods such as appliances; electronics; and bagged household trash. Hazardous materials, including paints, fuels, and chemicals, should not be placed at the curb.

Debris should stay behind the curb or at the pavement’s edge to keep streets clear for trucks and emergency services. Contractors have begun assessments and expect to start pickups within seven to 10 days, focusing first on the hardest-hit areas like South Bell Street.

Valenzuela asked residents to document all damages for potential assistance.

“Keep a record of everything—the damages, the water lines, exactly everything that’s happened,” he said. “We’re here for y’all, and we’re here to serve you. ... We just want to make sure that everyone is taken care of.”

Information and debris-sorting graphics are available at sanangelo.gov/July4.