Thursday at 2:00 PM

 

This post provides a factual summary of the Pocahontas County Solid Waste Authority (PCSWA) meeting held yesterday, that can be viewed on this page and other pages. I will share my personal opinions, potential actions, and relevant contacts for assistance later this weekend.

 

The meeting began Thursday at 2:00 PM in the county commissioners’ meeting room but was soon relocated to the courthouse due to a large turnout of concerned residents.

 

At the start, board members clarified that they are not proposing a $300 per parcel fee; however, no specific fee amounts were discussed during this meeting.

 

A letter that was distributed to meeting participants and later published by The Pocahontas Times online was read by Mary Clendenen.

 

The first agenda item involved a reading of updates to the mandatory garbage disposal regulations. A participant on the phone; presumed to be the PCSWA attorney, Mr. Simms; was not formally introduced.

 

For brevity, this summary highlights the regulatory sections that generated the most public interest. Additional details are available via the meeting recording or upon request.

 

One notable update involved Section 3, regarding approved disposal methods. Proposed options include adopting a transfer station model, maintaining green box sites, and recycling services in the future, (please note, recycling programs are generally costly).

 

The following statements reflect key points discussed. Please note that these are proposed changes only and have not been finalized. A vote is scheduled for March 25 at 6:00 PM:

 

• All trash must be taken to an authorized facility or collected by a licensed hauler.

 

• Residents may be required to provide proof of proper disposal (e.g., green box receipts or documentation from a licensed hauler).

 

• Individuals may not transport their own solid waste to another county; all waste generated in Pocahontas County must be delivered to the designated transfer station.

 

• Burning or burying trash is prohibited; all waste must go to green box sites or be handled by a licensed hauler.

 

• Household items such as furniture, mattresses, and appliances must be weighed at the facility, with applicable tipping fees required.

 

• A proposed exception may apply to certain construction materials, which could allow disposal outside the county.

 

Section 11 includes provisions for property inspections related to solid waste compliance, with potential civil penalties for violations.

 

The board also discussed the continuation of “Free Dump Day.” Two members expressed support for maintaining it, while one opposed it. During the discussion, it was stated that only one person had utilized the program in the past year. I noted that my husband had participated; however, board members disputed this. Upon confirming afterward, my husband stated that he had, in fact, participated two years ago while assisting another individual who lacked transportation, and that proper paperwork was completed at that time.

 

One speaker addressed staffing concerns for Free Dump Day, noting associated costs. However, it was not mentioned that the facility is already staffed during regular operating hours on that day.

Board members also indicated that all solid waste is currently transported to Tucker County, as it is the only facility capable of accommodating the size of the trucks used. Closer landfill facilities reportedly cannot handle these vehicles.

 

The next meeting, scheduled for March 25, will include a public comment period. Individuals wishing to speak will be limited to three minutes each.--Nancy Harris