SANDPOINT — During Bonner County's solid waste department update, officials noted a continued uptick in calls from residents following last year’s sticker and fee increase, even as overall waste tonnage declines.  

In his department overview, solid waste director Bob Howard shared that sites around the county are experiencing a slower-than-average pace, reporting a 15% reduction in waste tonnage from October through January.  

Howard reported 242 fewer tons compared to the same period last year. 

At the same time, the department has seen an increase in call volume from community members who have questions about dump stickers and fees, which were increased late last year. Commissioners shared that they continue to receive calls regarding the stickers as well, with community members who share frustration about sticker prices and fee increases.  

Solid waste stickers are tied to applicable property owners in the county who pay a separate solid waste fee on their property tax bill. Each household that pays those fees receives two solid waste stickers, which grant access to the county’s solid waste collection sites.  

The county does replace stickers under special circumstances, and a new set of stickers can be purchased for $194 — an option for households that need more than two stickers. 

“We’re trying to help some people think outside the box in realizing that you don’t have to have it (sticker) attached to the windshield,” Commissioner Brian Domke said. “Some folks, for whatever reason, feel that they have to have one for every family member, every vehicle, all of the above. And people have the right to choose to do it that way, and they can pay the additional fee if they choose to do it that way. But they don’t have to operate that way, and we give them options. We verbally explain other ways to do it that don’t require them to need more than two stickers.” 

Waste fees were increased across the board to better align with departmental operating costs, according to the department’s website. 

The department mailed 26,630 sets of stickers in 2026, about 200 more than last year. Howard said only 180 residents did not receive their stickers — roughly 0.7% of recipients.

The department noted that a March 1 deadline will be in effect for individuals who said they did not receive their stickers.