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12/08/2006: "Public Input Wanted On Fee Increases"

The County Council wears more than one hat, one of which is when they sit as the SWDB (Solid Waste Disposal District Board). As such, they will hold a public hearing at 3:00 PM on the 19th of December in the Community Meeting Room of the Islanders Bank Administration Building in Friday Harbor. The purpose of the meeting is to accept testimony on a proposed ordinance from Public Works that will increase the "solid waste tipping fees" (i.e., how much it costs to dump your garbage), by 9%, and if adopted the new fees would become effective March 31, of next year. The new budget assumes the fees will be adopted.

At a recent meeting the Board asked Public Works if the current fees have been sufficient to keep the program "in the black", and Matt Zybas responded that so far they have been, but "it has been close".

Councilman Bob Myhr asked if the proposed 9% increase was included in the recent budget as assumed to have been approved. He was told that it was in the budget and it was assumed that the Council would approve the increase after the public hearing. County Administrator Pete Rose pointed out that if the increase is not approved, then the budget will have to be looked at to see what can be adjusted or removed to make up for the loss of the income from the new fees.


All persons wishing to be heard on this matter are encouraged by the County Council and by the SWDB -which is one and the same- to attend. Written comments may also be submitted in advance of the hearing by mail or e-mail, or at the hearing by delivery in person.

You are asked to please send seven copies of all written comments to the Clerk of the County Council at 350 Court Street, #1, Friday Harbor, WA 98250. (360) 378-2898.

Copies of all emails should be sent to Carolyn Morrison, carolynm@co.san-juan.wa.us so that it may be included as part of the County file.

For additional information the public is encouraged to contact Ed Hale at the Public Works Department, P.O. Box 729 or 915 Spring Street, Friday Harbor WA 98250 (360)370-0532