Submitted by Georgiana Campbell, League of Women Voters observer
Solid Waste: This week's short, one-hour meeting began with Michael Cook, who is in charge of Solid Waste, appearing with requests to advertise for bids. First were bids on the job of closing a section of the landfill this summer (filled to capacity at that point) and also to advertise for bids for a new garbage compactor (a machine that has lengthened the landfill's useful life by making it possible to put more garbage in a smaller area). These requests were approved.
The discussion revealed some interesting information. The compactor now in use, bought in 2000, cost $300,000, but since the trouble-free life of a landfill compactor is about five years, it is time for a new machine. In response to a commissioner's question, Cook stated that we have about 19.6 years left before the landfill is filled, assuming the current rate of filling continues. There is no plan for exactly what to do after that. It was originally thought (hoped?) that by the time 2024 came a new plan (perhaps new technology) would be available to deal with garbage disposal. Possibly permission could be obtained to fill in a vacant valleyarea between the old and new landfills.
Auditor/Treasurer: Fran Windschitl presented and explained to the commissioners the latest Rice County investment report. As usual, the report showed that, considering the general economy, the county's investments are doing well. Windschitl also asked for approval to purchase financial adviser services, needed when the county undertakes the bonding process necessary to finance future courthouse renovation. This request was approved.Planning and Zoning: It is interesting to note that the use of "transfer development rights" is now seen in the Planning and Zoning requests for plat approval. Transfer development rights were only recently made a part of the zoning ordinances that were re-written after the new Comprehensive Plan was adopted.
Of some concern, voiced by Commissioner Petersen, was the request for approval of placement of a gravel crusher and washing plant on land currently zoned a wild and scenic river district. This site is off (north) of County Road 29, close to the Cannon River and to the Cannon River Wilderness Area. The P. and Z. explanation was that since the site has a Conditional Use Permit from some years ago, this use is permissible until the CUP expires; the site includes the past gravel mining area (so labeled on the aerial map).
ADVANCE NOTICE: There will be no commissioners meeting on Tuesday, March 1. This is because there are five Tuesdays in March, and the commissioners have only four regular meetings a month.
