The 1999 County Budget funded nine staff positions with a range of responsibilities including: operation of a sewer plant, management of solid waste, domestic and industrial water system planning and operation, county-wide community and economic development, and flood hazard reduction planning.

Primarily the Utilities and Development Division undertakes projects identified in the County's Capital Facilities Plan. The Capital Facilities Plan identifies necessary improvements in water, wastewater and storm drainage facilities to achieve an acceptable level of service that protect public health and safety while promoting economic development. Tackling these projects requires the Utilities and Development Division to spend a considerable amount of time working directly with the communities of Grays Harbor County. In Neilton, Pacific Beach/Moclips, Satsop, Illahee/Oyehut, and Hogans Corner, time is spent on domestic water system planning. Sewer collection systems plans are projected for the communities of Illahee/Oyehut, Hogans Corner, and Pacific Beach/Moclips. The County also plays a role in promoting industrial development by working to extend infrastructure in the East County and working to maintain the industrial waterline service to businesses in Aberdeen, Hoquiam and Cosmopolis. In recent years, the Utilities and Development Division commenced a phased countywide flood hazard reduction plan beginning with the North and South Beach communities. Ultimately all phases will be incorporated into a comprehensive county plan.

The Division highlight for 1998 was the Pacific Beach sewer system's treatment plant upgrade and expansion. Completion of this project allowed for neighborhoods in Moclips and Pacific Beach to connect to the sewer system eliminating the health hazard their failing septic systems created. Scheduled for the 1999 construction season is the connection of more neighborhoods in the Moclips community. The sewer plant operators may be reached at (360) 276-8373.

Solid Waste Program

The Utilities and Development Division manages the Solid Waste Program. The Solid Waste Program is responsible for the implementation of the programs and policies defined in the Solid Waste Management Plan. The Solid Waste Management Plan has been a coordinated process utilizing county staff and a Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC).

The Solid Waste Program provides a variety of programs and services to the general public, including recycling and hazardous waste education programs, waste reduction programs, hazardous waste disposal opportunities, motor oil recycling sites, composting, curbside recycling and rural transfer stations.

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