Unsecured loads at Delano are about to cost you

If you’ve gotten in the habit of driving uncovered loads to Delano, you will now see a fine for that on your bill, according to the board that oversees the transfer station.

The Regional Board of Mayors discussed the issue at their April 3 meeting, prompted by Delano Manager Randy Gumm’s recommendation, due to an increase in observed road litter from dump-bound vehicles.

He and his new attendant hires have noticed people hauling material into the transfer station that is not tied down or covered, “and we’re finding their stuff out on Alcan Road pretty regular, and other places.”

“We’ve been warning people now for several years,” he said, adding that he sometimes sees repeat offenders.

Gumm suggested they start charging the fine that’s already on the books: $5 for unsecured loads up to three cubic yards, and $15 for anything over that. 

Delano Transfer Station has had a banner advertising the fines for some time, Gumm noted, though up to this point they have mainly been issuing warnings to people who fail to cover, tie down or otherwise secure their loads.

But it’s a serious issue, he said, telling the board he has seen storage totes and other items fall from vehicles right alongside him when he’s been on his motorcycle.

Although no formal motion was made at the meeting, the board directed Gumm to begin charging the stated fee.

“It’s something we need to be consistent on, I think,” Mayor Diane Kohout said, adding that she would bring up the issue for clarification next week at the Grant County Solid Waste Advisory Committee, which she serves on.

“I mean, if we’re supposed to collect it, we’re supposed to collect it,” said Coulee Dam Mayor Bob Poch, who chairs the board.

Unsecured loads cause over 300 crashes in Washington every year and up to 40 percent of roadside litter, according to the Washington State Department of Ecology. It’s also against state law.

While Ecology Department statistics claim “two out of three drivers always secure their loads,” local results may vary.

“I would say easily half” of loads are unsecured, said Seena Miremadi, a Delano gate attendant who is also Electric City’s recently hired code compliance officer.

Ecology recommends keeping cargo nets, tarps, ropes, bungee cords or straps in your truck in order to be able to properly secure your load.