Transfer‑station fire investigated; supervisors urge careful disposal of batteries and hazardous waste

Board members discussed a recent incident at the county transfer station that generated multiple photos, required assessment by four fire departments and prompted coordination with insurance and the fire marshal before the facility could reopen. One supervisor said private contractors praised the rapid response and noted repairs included trenching a new electrical line and addressing damage to a west wall. "We had to get the okay from the fire marshal. We had to get the okay from the insurance company before we could open," a supervisor said.

Speakers emphasized public responsibility in disposing of hazardous items. County officials warned that items such as lithium batteries and improperly prepared paint cans can ignite or otherwise endanger recyclers and employees. "It boils down to personal responsibility when you throw stuff away. There's a reason they say don't throw lithium batteries into the dirt," a supervisor said. The board encouraged continued diligence from residents and vendors to avoid contamination of recyclables and to preserve vendor services.