County begins process to internalize solid waste transport

A decision to lease three Peterbilt tractors with the option of purchase for solid waste transportation will save Adams County nearly $8 per ton per year, according to Adams County Public Works Director Todd O’Brien.

“Generally speaking that equates to a considerable amount of money,” O’Brien said during the morning session on July 18. “It is my recommendation to enter into a 60 month lease with PacLease. I think it’s best to lease right now so we don’t have to make the capital purchase right now.”

The Adams County Board of County Commissioners unanimously agreed to have the chairman sign a lease purchase agreement between Western Pacific Leasing (PacLease) and the county for three Peterbilt tractors in preparation of internalizing solid waste transportation.

The county currently contracts with Sam Villareal Trucking for 18-20 loads per week to the Waste Management of Washington facility in Gilliam County, Ore.

O’Brien noted that the county may still need a contract with a private contractor once or twice a week for hauling solid waste due to the amount of tonnage in the summer months.

Sam Villareal Trucking has managed the increased tonnage amounts by making an early morning trip to the Columbia Ridge Facility in Oregon, returning to pick up another truck and driving to Gilliam County – all within the eight hours the facility is open each day.

The tractors will be delivered in September or October of this year.