No solid waste collection district shall be established in an area within the county boundaries unless the county legislative authority, after the hearing regarding formation of such district, determines from that hearing that mandatory solid waste collection is in the public interest and necessary for the preservation of public health. Such determination by the county legislative authority shall require the utilities and transportation commission to investigate and make a finding as to the ability and willingness of the existing garbage and refuse collection companies servicing the area to provide the required service.

If the utilities and transportation commission finds that the existing garbage and refuse collection company or companies are unable or unwilling to provide the required service it shall proceed to issue a certificate of public need and necessity to any qualified person or corporation in accordance with the provisions of RCW 81.77.040.

The utilities and transportation commission shall notify the county legislative authority within sixty days of its findings and actions and if no qualified garbage and refuse collection company or companies are available in the proposed solid waste collection district, the county legislative authority may provide county garbage and refuse collection services in the area and charge and collect reasonable fees therefor. The county shall not provide service in any portion of the area found by the utilities and transportation commission to be receiving adequate service from an existing certificated carrier unless the county shall acquire the rights of such existing certificated carrier by purchase or condemnation.

Certain provisions not to detract from commission powers, duties, and functions: RCW 80.01.300.