Valley County presses Lakeshore Disposal over transfer-station management, equipment and contract terms

Valley County commissioners told Lakeshore Disposal representatives at a May 27 workshop they are concerned about the condition and management of the county transfer station and want changes before agreeing to a contract renewal.

The discussion followed the county’s receipt of complaints from Central District Health and multiple constituents about trash piled outside buildings, illegal dumping and missed curbside pickups. Commissioners said the county and taxpayers are investing in the site and expect better site management, while Lakeshore representatives described short-term fixes and options for longer-term changes.

Commissioner (unnamed) opened the session by saying Central District Health had contacted the county about “the conditions of the site” and that commissioners were “not happy” with how it is being managed. The commissioner said the county needs “an explanation of what’s happening and why our site is not being appropriately managed.”

A Lakeshore Disposal representative said the company will bring in temporary staff this week to help clean and manage piles and is planning to hire an additional worker to be stationed at the site. “We will be (hiring) a third position,” the representative said, adding the local hiring market may affect the exact timing.

Commissioners and Lakeshore staff discussed operations…