Alternatives 
Local governments need regulator flexibility so that new methods can be 
employed. While it is our obligation to demonstrate the effectiveness 
of a particular process, agencies must not be so locked into certain 
technologies that they cannot entertain alternatives. Options should 
be authorized where they do not compromise standards in any meaningful 
way. 
There is some evidence now that industrial pre-treatment has reduced 
pollution loading in Puget Sound by 50% during the past decade. If 
that is at all accurate, investment in keeping toxins from “entering 
the pipe" may be far more cost effective than treatment at the end. 
Today's technology-based standard does not permit considering options. 
We may heavily invest in the wrong answers to our problem. 
Financing alternatives are important, especially in Washington State 
where the constitution vigorously prohibits the lending of the State's 
credit. Privatization is being pursued by at least one community. 
Others would benefit if staggered payments were made over a 20-year 
period rather than a lump sum payment immediately. However, debate 
continues about the Legislature's authority to obligate a future body 
to such a contract. 
There is general concensus that financing technical assistance right 
now is less important than bricks and mortar. Projects to eliminate 
combined sewer overflows, service homes with dysfunctional on-site 
systems, and improve treatment are urgent and costly. Money should 
help us ^ the things we need to more than tell us how to do it. 
Local governments may be faulted for being too pragmatic. However, as 
multi-purpose governments, we do have broad ranging responsibilities. 
Ratepayer revolt and land use politics have yet to emerge in Puget 
Sound water quality issues. Utilities and land use policies 
traditionally have been the prerogative of local government. Public 
resistance could stymie some very progressive policies. To gain and 
retain public support, government must demonstrate that solutions are 
thoughtful and cost effective. We must not only endorse objectives at 
all government levels, but commit to sensible methods of achieving 
them. Local governments need a responsive ear in the Congress and 
regulating agencies. Then, we can indeed look forward to a cleaner 
Puget Sound. 
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