The Spokane Regional Solid Waste System (System) was created by Inter-local Agreement between Spokane County and the City of Spokane on October 11, 1988.  All ten of the existing regional cities and towns, as well as Fairchild Air Force Base, subsequently joined the System by executing inter-local agreements with the City and County of Spokane.  In 2003, the newly incorporated cities of Liberty Lake and Spokane Valley also executed Inter-local agreements and joined the System. 

The system operates as a department of the City of Spokane’s government, and manages solid waste facilities and contracts for the benefit of all citizens residing in Spokane County.  The concurrence of the County is required for certain major decisions.  A Liaison Board was established by Inter-local Agreement in 1987.  Its purpose is to recommend policy and provide direction on matters pertaining to the management of solid waste and related environmental issues in the incorporated and unincorporated areas throughout Spokane County.  Areas of responsibility include recycling/waste reduction, composting, solid waste disposal, household hazardous waste and litter programs.  The Liaison Board is also responsible for monitoring capital assets and recommending capital improvements of the System.