Council allows one-time conditional biosolids application while calling for further testing and potential ordinance

Members of the public and county representatives told the Mansfield Town Council about concerns and monitoring practices related to land-application of biosolids inside the town’s two-mile buffer. Joanne Schiebe raised complaints about smell and potential health hazards, and Jake Finzinson (representing King County and BPI) said, “BPI has always left it to the farmer to present to council to ask for bio‑solid placement within the two‑mile buffer,” and that King County conducts annual testing of small rural wells and streams with reports posted online.

Local testimony included Douglas Poole describing testing on biosolids since 1990 with agencies such as DOE, WSU, University of Washington and DOH; he offered to serve on a citizens’ committee to help the community understand testing. Council members discussed operational limits (timing, tillage, placement, wind direction) and draft ordinance language. Council member Jardine moved to permit Daryl Greninger to place a one-time Class A biosolid within the two-mile buffer provided it was worked immediately into the ground while further research and testing were completed. Council member Tupling seconded; the motion carried with Council member Lamar abstaining.