Yavapai County proposes $25M road budget and new transfer station fees

The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary and operational matters affecting the county's public works and solid waste management. The meeting highlighted significant funding initiatives, proposed fee adjustments, and ongoing challenges faced by the Public Works Department.

The session opened with a presentation on the proposed budget for the regional road half-cent fund, which is set at approximately $25 million for the year. This figure represents the highest allocation since the inception of the fund, aimed at addressing deferred road projects across the county. The board emphasized the importance of completing these projects to enhance infrastructure and public safety.

A key agenda item was the introduction of a development fee schedule. Currently, developers are not charged for the review of roadway and infrastructure plans, which places a financial burden on the general fund. The proposed fee schedule aims to transfer these costs to developers, thereby alleviating pressure on county resources.

The board also discussed various funding opportunities to supplement existing revenue streams, including grants from programs such as the Highway Safety Improvement Program and the Off-System Bridge Program. These grants are crucial for financing improvement projects and ensuring the county can leverage its half-cent funding effectively.

Another significant topic was the proposed adjustments to transfer station fees, which have not been updated in nearly two decades. The board plans to implement fee increases starting June 1, 2025, with the goal of aligning costs with current operational expenses. Currently, the general fund covers a substantial portion of the costs associated with solid waste services, and the fee adjustments aim to shift some of this financial responsibility back to users.

The meeting also addressed challenges faced by the Public Works Department, particularly regarding inflation and rising material costs. The board noted that the outdated highway user revenue fund tax rate, established in 1990, is insufficient to meet current funding needs. Additionally, the department is grappling with increased demands on its emergency management services due to rising hazards, including wildfire risks exacerbated by recent drought conditions.

In terms of operational enhancements, the board discussed the need for additional staffing within the solid waste division to manage the growing volume of green waste and slash material at transfer stations. The current workforce is stretched thin, and the introduction of a second solid waste field supervisor is proposed to improve oversight and efficiency.

The meeting concluded with a focus on future opportunities, including enhancing emergency management programs and exploring partnerships for waste-to-energy initiatives. The board remains committed to seeking innovative solutions to address the county's evolving needs while ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Overall, the discussions underscored the board's proactive approach to managing Yavapai County's infrastructure and solid waste challenges, with a clear emphasis on sustainability and community engagement.