The Bonner County Solid Waste Public Hearing held on October 7, 2025, focused on the management of waste disposal stickers and the associated costs for residents. The meeting addressed concerns regarding the distribution of waste disposal stickers, particularly in relation to vacation rentals and the potential for misuse.
One of the primary discussions centered on the current sticker system, which allows residents to purchase up to two stickers for household waste disposal at a cost of $194. Officials highlighted the importance of controlling the number of stickers issued to prevent budgetary leakage, particularly from out-of-state residents who may be bringing their trash into Bonner County without contributing to the local waste management system. The board emphasized that the fees are not intended to generate profit but to cover the actual costs of waste disposal.
Concerns were raised about the fairness of the sticker system, especially in comparison to neighboring Kootenai County, which charges based on the weight of waste rather than a flat sticker fee. Officials clarified that no waste disposal service is free, and Bonner County's approach aims to maintain affordability for its residents while ensuring responsible waste management.
The discussion also touched on the possibility of reducing sticker costs in the future if the overall waste disposal weight decreases, suggesting that responsible management could lead to lower fees for residents. The board reiterated the need for personal responsibility among residents to prevent misuse of the system.
As the meeting progressed, the board addressed questions regarding the purchase of individual stickers and the rationale behind the two-sticker limit per household. They clarified that the system is designed to reflect typical household waste disposal practices, where households do not receive additional garbage cans based on the number of occupants.
In conclusion, the Bonner County Solid Waste Public Hearing underscored the importance of managing waste disposal effectively while balancing costs for residents. The board remains committed to ensuring that the sticker system is fair and sustainable, with ongoing discussions about potential adjustments based on community needs and waste management practices.