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County to build year-round facility for collecting household hazardous wastes

Chelan County commissioners have awarded a $1.1 million contract to a Moses Lake company for the construction of a facility that will allow residents to safely dispose of common household chemicals on a year-round basis.

Black Rock Construction and Development began construction on the moderate risk waste facility this winter. The 5,200-square-foot facility is being built at 3612 Highway 97A, near Stemilt. It is expected to be finished and open by summer 2019.

“This facility is very much needed in Chelan County,” said Brenda Blanchfield, coordinator of the Chelan County Solid Waste program. “With its construction, our residents will be able to safely and properly dispose of household hazardous wastes, keeping these materials out of our landfills and water treatment systems.”

The facility’s construction is being paid for in part with a $520,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce and a $78,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology. Chelan County and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere and Entiat are also contributing money for the construction project.

“The facility is a result of years of hard work and additional commitment by the cities and the county,” said Commissioner Keith Goehner, chairman of the Chelan County Board of County Commissioners.  “We appreciate everyone working together to make this happen.”

In the past, Chelan County has held annual or semi-annual household hazardous waste collection events, which can cost more than $70,000 an event. Collected are such toxic and corrosive materials as old kitchen and bathroom cleaners; paint thinner and degreasers; automobile fluids; rodent killers, insect sprays and garden pesticides; pool chemicals; and other household products. About five years ago, the county decided that instead of holding these costly events it would focus on a long-term solution.

General site work, including demolition work and the laying of the new facility’s foundation, has been completed. The new facility will charge a nominal fee for use to cover operations and disposal.

To follow along with the project's progress, join the Solid Waste ListServ.

Last Updated: 08/24/2021 09:04 AM

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  • 22
    May 2024
    06:30 PM - 08:00 PM

    Planning Commission - May 22, 2024

    Posted by: Community Development

    400 Douglas Street
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    May 2024
    07:00 PM - 08:00 PM

    Assessor's Office Community Meeting: Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee

    Posted by: Chelan County Assessor

    Chelan County Assessor Wes Cornelius invites property owners and all interested parties to attend one of four community meetings scheduled this spring throughout the county.

    Chelan County Fire District 3 station
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    Final day to withdraw from the ballot

    Posted by: Chelan County Elections

    Final day to withdraw from the ballot

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    May 2024
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    Lot Drawing for Candidates

    Posted by: Chelan County Elections

    Lot drawing for candidates placement on the ballot.

    Chelan County Elections Office
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    May 2024
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Chelan County Civil Service Commission

    Posted by: Human Resources

    The Chelan County Civil Service Commission will be meeting on May 8, 2024.

    Chelan County Commissioners Office, ES Conference Room.