To modify the maximum allowable collection rate by a municipality from fifteen to eighteen cents per month per residential customer. This bill also allows ecology to use a 2010 growth factor to increase fees and modifies the collection language for fees. (See also Companion SB 5430).   Official Text and Analysis.

To add authorization for the DOE to increase fees up to the fiscal growth factor for fiscal year 2011, except for categories of discharges whose fees exceed the costs of managing their permits. The substitute bill also adds the requirement that the DOE, with the advice of an advisory committee, evaluate the existing fee structure, including the current inequity of fees relative to permit workload, and report its findings to the Legislature in 2010.

Authorizes the Department of Ecology (DOE) to charge an annual fee for domestic waste water facility permits up to 18 cents per month per residence or residential equivalent that is contributing to the waste water system. Allows the DOE to increase fees up to the fiscal growth factor for fiscal years 2010 and 2011. Authorizes the DOE to adjust the fee schedule annually through December 31, 2011. Requires the DOE to evaluate the existing fee structure.