Granite County officials and town representatives discussed whether certain materials delivered to the Phillipsburg transfer station could be classified as infectious waste and, if so, how the county and town should lawfully accept and handle that waste.

A county attorney and staff reviewed the statutory framework and said items that meet the statutory definition of infectious waste must be properly bagged and sterilized—by steam, chemical treatment or incineration—before being mixed with ordinary trash. Participants said steaming followed by secure bagging appeared to be the least costly compliance option for small quantities, and they discussed whether the town of Phillipsburg or a local hospital should provide decontamination (for example, a small steamer) or accept the material directly.

No formal county policy change was adopted. The town of Phillipsburg was copied on communications and the county will await the town’s response and a follow‑up from the transfer station operator and Allied/Allied‑BFI (the county’s contracted hauler was copied on the exchange). County staff said they will relay any requirement that businesses or residents sterilize certain items before drop‑off and will follow up on whether the town or allied hauler will accept treated material for disposal.

Committee members noted the practical steps that would be needed if steaming at the transfer site is required: a secure staging area, correct bagging, training for town staff, and confirmation that the hauler will accept the treated material. One speaker suggested the county or town could buy a small commercial steamer and team up with the hospital; another noted the statute’s handling and documentation requirements.

County staff said they would follow up with Phillipsburg and Allied and, if necessary, place the issue on a future agenda for policy action. No vote or contractual change was recorded at the meeting.