The Washington County Board of Supervisors discussed oil spills that have recently taken place at the County Recycling Center during their Tuesday meeting. 

There have been two spills at the center so far, and the cost of clean-up has been nearly $750. Supervisor Jack Seward Jr requested that WEMIGA send the bill of the clean-up to the county, as they are a tenant of the property, and should not have to cover the cost. 

During discussion, County Attorney Nathan Repp shared what the potential charges could be if the individual was discovered improperly disposing of the oil, “There are a couple of different avenues in charging this type of case. Based on the information that you provided, the level of charge for criminal mischief is based on the cost to repair or restore. In this case, the aggregate is $735 so that would be punishable by a serious misdemeanor. The other avenue where this could be charged is unlawful disposal of hazardous waste, so that’s actually a higher charge, that’s an aggravated misdemeanor. Maximum penalty for that could be up to two years in prison, it comes with a maximum fine of $25,000. Obviously, that particular charge is more on point to this type of act. This is what I believe, based on our discussions, is a major inconvenience for these people who are trying to take care of disposal needs for the county. So, when they have to stop what they are doing, take time out of their day and call in another company to come and do the clean-up when somebody is improperly disposing of hazardous waste is a problem.”  

As a reminder, you must be a Washington County rural resident in order to dispose of your regular household garbage at no charge at this site. Proof of residency is required upon request if the facility attendant asks. If you do not meet the requirements you will not be allowed to dispose of your garbage. Oil can be disposed of at the center for a fee and through proper procedures.