County amends solid-waste code to remove dated deadlines and clarify senior/ADU exemptions; board directs attorney to align ordinance with practice

Hank Ines introduced a public hearing on an ordinance to correct inconsistencies in the solid-waste code related to special-rate considerations, including the senior-citizen discount and accessory dwelling unit exemptions. Staff said the change removes date-based inconsistencies to give the administration flexibility to assist qualifying property owners.

Denise Herndon, a resident who spoke during public comment, said she had expected to apply for senior and low-income discounts only once and questioned why non‑ad valorem assessments vary across nearby properties. Staff acknowledged the audit’s finding that discount management tied to folio numbers needs improvement and discussed options such as requiring renewals every year or biennially and seeking better data integration with the property appraiser.

The board approved the ordinance to clean up the code and separately adopted a motion requesting the county attorney and administration review implementation and return with revisions to align the ordinance with operating practice. Commissioners noted the assessment is tied to a property folio, not a person, and discussed tracking ownership changes and ensuring timely notice.

The ordinance and the implementation-direction motion passed unanimously.