Dump Site Issues Raise Concerns

In recent weeks, T & R Trucking, contracted out to haul city garbage and transport containers from outlying dump sites to the landfill, have encountered some challenges. In one instance, a trailer camper had been left at an outlying dump. In another, an entire intact house deck had been left. In the case of the deck, T & R Trucking spent over three hours dismantling the deck in order to transport it to the landfill.

In light of these circumstances, the landfill board has placed cameras at outlying dump sites for a trial period. Security cameras are already in use at the main site.

City officials and landfill representatives kindly ask the residents of Valley County to respect the rules regarding use of the dump sites and the landfill. Manager Brian Austin and Secretary Darcia Schindler are proud of the quality of service provided to Valley County and express a desire to maintain that level. Austin provided a letter from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, which stated in part, “The site looked fantastic, as usual! You guys continue to be the example of a clean and well-run landfill.”

However, they are adamant they need the cooperation of the public in order to do so. Austin asks that people using the sites place their refuse in the proper containers as provided. Common sense and courtesy from the public help maintain the facility for everyone. Respect for rules and use of dump sites also cuts down on costs and wear and tear for the contractor, T & R Trucking.

Only household garbage is allowed in the dumpsters, both at outlying locations and at the landfill site. Household garbage is defined as waste which is generated in the day-to-day operations of a household; solid waste comprising garbage and rubbish (such as bottles, cans, clothing, compost, disposables, food packaging, food scraps, newspapers, and magazines) that originates from private houses and apartments. Individuals with questions or complaints are urged to call the landfill manager, 263-2879; county commissioners, 230-0574; or landfill board chair, Glen Guenther, 526-7001.

All other waste needs to be taken directly to the landfill and across the scale so that the proper fee can be assessed. A list of disposal fees is available at the scale house and office at the landfill site. All fees are based on a per-ton rate. Austin reminds the public that it takes a lot of garbage to reach that one ton amount and therefore the prices charged are reasonable.