Board gives first read to reinstating vehicle decal for convenience stations

At the Board of Supervisors' Sept. 24 meeting, staff presented a first reading of an ordinance to require a vehicle decal (auto sticker) for Washington County convenience centers and transfer stations to limit out‑of‑county waste deliveries and ease burdens on station attendants.

Kathy Johnson explained the proposal would reissue the county sticker tied to the existing registration/registration fee already listed on county personal property tax statements. There would be no new $25 fee for county residents; the decal would be reissued every three years and two stickers initially mailed to property owners. Exceptions and accommodations — for caregivers, short‑term rentals or residents who use another vehicle — were discussed; officials said the county will verify property ownership before mailing replacement stickers and will create clear rules and an online application.

Board members questioned enforcement and the risk of shifting illegal dumping to roadsides. Staff said the plan emphasizes signage, mailed decals and public outreach; the convening plan includes training for staff who handle exceptions and a run‑up period before enforcement if the board proceeds. The board authorized the county attorney to schedule a public hearing to consider the ordinance.