Abstract |
The report presents the sequence of events that led to the formation and implementation of a multijurisdictional agency for solid waste collection and disposal. The Des Moines Metropolitan Area Solid Waste Agency (METRO) was formed by two counties and twelve cities and towns under the provisions of the State Intergovernmental Cooperation Act. Many technical, legal, financial and political problems were encountered by the Agency. Metro had to defend itself through the Supreme Court of Iowa on two separate occasions before major stumbling blocks could be cleared away, permitting full operation. Part of the court actions was to test the constitutionality of the basic enabling legislation, and to test certain new legislation which the Agency had requested and received from the State Legislature. This needed to be accomplished before revenue bonds could be sold. The other court action was brought about by citizens attempting to prevent the operation of certain sanitary landfill facilities. Today the Agency is a successful organization which was created, severely tested, and has not only survived but is performing a valuable function efficiently and economically. |