Commissioners Hear Resident Complaint Over Surprise Dump Bill; County Staff to Clarify Solid‑Waste Policy

A resident’s emailed complaint about a $5.40 disposal charge for bagged leaves prompted an extended discussion and public questions about how Granite Disposal and county policy handle leaf and grass disposal.

During correspondence review, commissioners read an email from a resident who said he had not been given notice of a policy change and was surprised to receive a bill. Scott Redick, the county solid-waste clerk, and commissioners explained the local practice: customers who sign up for curb service surrender a one-time 2,000‑pound allowance and thereafter pay for additional disposal; local transfer-station attendants and contractor notices are used to explain the rule. "That's what we had said," Scott Redick said, explaining that Robinson from Granite Disposal had distributed a form letter stating customers who use the service and go to the dump will be charged on a per‑pound basis.

Commissioners asked staff to retrieve the correspondence or form letter and recommended sending a clear written response to the complainant. Several commissioners and a public commenter, Elena Gagliano, urged the county to ensure that correspondence posted to the record receives a reply so residents understand the status of their concerns.

The board also debated whether leaves and grass should be allowed on the burn pile or required to go in the dumpster. Solid-waste staff and long-time attendants described a longstanding practice of directing leaves and grass into the dumpster because loose piles smoked; commissioners said staff should get DEQ guidance if necessary and flagged that a formal written county policy may not yet be published and should be clarified.

Next steps: staff will search for any notice or form letter by Granite Disposal, prepare a written reply to the complainant, and consider putting the leaf/grass disposal policy on a future agenda for clarification and possible revision.