HAMILTON TOWNSHIP- What do we get for our money?

That was the question on the mind of area residents at a public hearing Thursday evening in Hamilton Township.

The Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste District has proposed implementation of a $12-per-year fee to pay for a state-mandated solid waste recycling and reduction program.

The public hearing Thursday was the final one in a series of three such meetings and the last formal opportunity for residents in both counties to ask questions and get answers about the fee.

"What does the public actually get for the money?" Vic Hopper, of Hanging Rock, wanted to know.

"Recycling services," was the reply from Chuck Yaniko, solid waste district coordinator. "We have 13 sites now and with this, that will jump to 40. And a (litter control) enforcement officer for each county, education programs."

The proposed fee would levy $1 per month for each improved parcel of land in the two counties.

Schools, churches and other exempt properties would pay nothing.

The fee would generate $643,457.02 annually toward a $756,657.02 budget.

Grants will make up the difference.

The state has required all solid waste districts in the state to have a set plan to reduce litter and solid waste going into landfills through recycling, litter law enforcement and public education.

"Do I get garbage pick up at my house for this?" one woman wanted to know.

Doug Cade, of E.L. Robinson Engineering, said the $12 fee does not include garbage pick up.

If approved, the fee goes into effect next year.

The solid waste district will accept written comments on the proposal until Aug. 5.

Comments may be address to the Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste District at 305 N. Fifth St., Ironton, Ohio 45638.