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Becker County doubles out‑of‑county landfill fees and approves seasonal staffing at transfer station
Summary
The board approved raising out‑of‑county demolition tip fees to twice the in‑county rate to limit inbound loads and passed a temporary seasonal hire (up to 67 days) to cover staff shortages at the transfer station, while discussing longer‑term infrastructure (fencing, cameras) and segregation‑of‑duties concerns.
The Becker County Board approved two solid‑waste items aimed at reducing inbound demolition waste and keeping transfer‑station operations running through the busy season.
Solid Waste manager Steve told commissioners the county’s out‑of‑county demolition tip fees are significantly lower than neighboring counties and recommended increasing the out‑of‑county rate to two times the in‑county fee to reduce the volume of external loads. After discussion about neighboring counties’ rates and local market effects, the board moved and adopted an amendment to the tip fee schedule by voice vote.
The board also approved hiring one seasonal pay‑station/clerical worker for up to 67 days to cover retiree vacancies, train replacements, and handle summer coverage. Commissioners emphasized the position is temporary and must be posted competitively; staff confirmed the seasonal hire will be held within the existing transfer‑station personnel budget and is not a new permanent position.
During debate members raised operational improvements and risks: several commissioners urged staff to review flow and consider electronic payment at the gate to speed throughput, while county audit staff and others highlighted segregation‑of‑duties and record‑keeping concerns if gate staff also handle cash. Commissioner discussion also referenced longer‑term investments—fencing, potential camera systems and integrated pay stations—to improve efficiency and address audit controls.
Staff will implement the new out‑of‑county fee schedule and proceed with filling the approved seasonal position while providing follow‑up information on transfer‑station workflow and fiscal impact to the board.
