(Continued from Page 1) of citizens’ concerns — typically

(Continued from Page 1) of citizens’ concerns — typically potential contamination of water sources and the nuisance factor of sludge spreading activities late at night and on weekends, according to the commonwealth’s attorney. i He proposed that a representative from the SWCB be invited to explain that agency’s procedures for licensing and inspection. From testimony at the public hearing, the board can determine a consensus as to regulating land application, he said. “The sooner you decide something on this, the better. You can’t get the operation certificate for Sperryville’s sewage treatment plant (needed by late June) until you have a sludge plan . . . Maybe the people won’t care and therefore you can let the state regulate it,” Mr. Luke said, pointing out that the county will have to provide the personnel to monitor compliance with any local regulations.

The board set a public hearing on sludge for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, in Washington’s Gay Street Theater.

Before scheduling the public hearing, the supervisors approved a loan of $8,528 to the WSA to cover plant start-up costs until collection of user fees begins.

Mr. Dennis noted that the WSA had borrowed money for construction of the sewage treatment plant in anticipation of grant awards. That money was invested and has been earning interest at a higher rate than the interest charged for the loan.

“But the planning district staff has advised us not to confuse finances by using that money (for the four-month period before user fees begin to come in),” Mr. Dennis said.

He assured the board that the WSA will have a surplus when it closes out its construction account a year from now and will be able to repay this latest loan plus approximately $20,000 advanced earlier by the county.

Supervisor Richard Latham objected to an interest-free loan. “I don’t think the county should subsidize this ... If the loan is interest