County boards of supervisors; may designate board attorney to serve as hearing officer in disputes regarding delinquent solid waste fees.
The changes introduced by HB 935 are expected to streamline the process for handling complaints about delinquent solid waste fees by authorizing a designated official to serve as a hearing officer. This can potentially reduce the burden on local courts and expedite the resolution of disputes. Additionally, the bill outlines mechanisms for slow payment through the possibility of allowing installment payments for those who owe fees. It will also codify the process by which counties provide notices of unpaid fees and liens against properties, aiming for clearer accountability and improved collection processes.
House Bill 935 aims to amend the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically Section 19-5-22, to grant boards of supervisors the authority to designate their attorney as a hearing officer in disputes related to delinquent solid waste fees. This amendment is intended to enhance the administrative process regarding the assessment and collection of garbage fees, which are charged jointly against property owners and waste generators. The bill allows for greater procedural flexibility in addressing disputes over the fees, which can be a source of conflict between local governments and residents.
Overall, House Bill 935 represents a noteworthy advance in the governance of solid waste management fees by local authorities in Mississippi. By implementing these amendments, it intends to create a more efficient framework for managing disputes and ensuring compliance while also prompting discussions about the fairness and administrative burden of such fee assessments.
While some may view HB 935 as a necessary improvement for managing waste fees and enforcing payments, there could be concerns regarding the delegation of authority to attorneys serving as hearing officers. Critics might argue that this could lead to conflicts of interest or a lack of impartiality. Furthermore, the provisions allowing counties to assess fees as liens on real property may raise concerns among property owners who might face penalties linked to someone else's delinquency in payment.