City officials address inefficiencies at aging transfer station with Waste Control

In a recent meeting held at the Cowlitz County Commissioner’s office, discussions centered around the ongoing challenges at the local transfer station, particularly concerning waste management and contractor access. As the meeting unfolded, it became clear that frustrations were mounting over the inefficiencies faced by both commercial haulers and individual contractors.

The transfer station, built in 2007, has been struggling with limited space and outdated facilities. With only two bays available for self-tipping trailers and trucks, many contractors have found themselves facing significant delays, especially during peak hours. One commissioner noted that the current setup forces many to manually unload their vehicles, a process that is not only time-consuming but also poses safety risks. “If you have just a short bed backing up to the conveyors, it’s a nightmare,” one commissioner remarked, highlighting the dangers and inefficiencies that contractors encounter.

Efforts have been made to address these issues, including a trial period last year that allowed contractors exclusive access to the transfer station during certain hours. However, concerns remain about the responsiveness of Waste Control, the company managing the facility. “They try to listen, but we need them to do more,” a commissioner stated, emphasizing the need for better communication and cooperation.

As the county continues to grow, the need for a more effective waste management strategy becomes increasingly urgent. The commissioners expressed a commitment to working with Waste Control to optimize operations at the transfer station, recognizing that the current system is not sustainable for the community’s needs.

With the contract with Waste Control set to expire in 2044, the discussions at this meeting may pave the way for significant changes in how waste management is handled in Cowlitz County. The commissioners are determined to ensure that both contractors and residents can navigate the transfer station more efficiently and safely in the future.