Local Solid Waste Financial Assistance

The Local Solid Waste Financial Assistance program is administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology to support local governments in managing solid and hazardous waste programs. Authorized under the Model Toxics Control Act and related state laws, the program provides financial assistance to ensure that local jurisdictions can effectively plan, implement, and enforce solid waste management systems. The Department of Ecology oversees the program, aligning it with statewide environmental goals while allowing local governments to address their specific needs. The primary purpose of the program is to fund activities related to solid and hazardous waste planning, implementation, and enforcement. This includes supporting the development and maintenance of local solid waste and hazardous waste management plans, as well as implementing projects identified within those plans. The program also aims to promote regional cooperation and ensure compliance with state regulations governing waste handling. By doing so, it helps reduce environmental contamination and improve public health outcomes across Washington State. Funding is distributed through a formula-based allocation system rather than a competitive process. For the 2025–2027 biennium, approximately $24 million is expected to be available, subject to final legislative approval. Funds are allocated among eligible local governments, including counties, cities, and jurisdictional health departments, based on predefined criteria such as population and statutory requirements. Recipients are required to contribute a 25 percent match, which may be provided through cash expenditures or in-kind contributions, consistent with program guidelines. Eligible uses of funds include a wide range of planning and operational activities. These include enforcement of solid waste regulations, development and maintenance of local waste management plans, waste reduction and recycling programs, organics management, and moderate risk waste handling. Special programs such as homeless encampment cleanup and syringe collection may also be funded under specific conditions. However, certain costs are ineligible, including landfill construction, general waste disposal, and activities not directly tied to compliance with solid waste regulations. Eligibility for the program is limited to specific types of local government entities. These include primary local governments responsible for maintaining solid waste management plans, partnering local governments that meet coordination requirements, independent cities with approved plans, and jurisdictional health departments. Nonprofits, individuals, and tribal organizations are not eligible applicants. Applicants must coordinate with relevant jurisdictions and submit applications through the Department of Ecology’s online system, known as EAGL, including all required documentation and forms. For the 2025 funding cycle, the application period opened on January 15, 2025, and closed on February 12, 2025. Applications were submitted through the EAGL system and reviewed by the Department of Ecology for eligibility and completeness. Agreements for awarded funds are typically effective beginning July 1, 2025, with a performance period aligned to the state biennium ending June 30, 2027. Recipients are required to submit quarterly progress and financial reports and comply with all administrative and reporting requirements throughout the grant period. Program evaluation focuses on ensuring that funded activities align with local waste management plans and produce measurable outcomes. The Department of Ecology monitors recipient performance through reporting, site visits, and evaluation forms. Funding decisions and future allocations may be influenced by past performance, including the ability to fully utilize awarded funds and meet program objectives. The program is expected to continue on a biennial cycle, providing ongoing support for local waste management efforts across the state.

Coordinate early with Ecology grant managers to confirm eligibility and scope. Ensure all required documentation is complete before submission. Maintain consistent communication and track reporting deadlines throughout the grant period.