A waste-hauling deal endorsed by Mayor Peter Corroon would save taxpayers $1.6 million a year, argues the mayor's chief financial officer. That contract - the county dumped Allied Waste in favor of a private hauler named Western Disposal to cut costs - was signed by the mayor's office earlier this month.

On Tuesday, some council Democrats cried foul.

"When it comes to making decisions on public policy, this council will not be bypassed," said Councilman Randy Horiuchi. "And I believe that's what happened."

Councilman Joe Hatch conceded landfill financing is complex - "I now understand why the mob is heavily involved in this industry," Hatch joked - but said the cost breakdown and savings need to be examined.

“I'm going to use the words of Ronald Reagan: 'Trust but verify.' ”

The new contract was devised after Allied's landfill in Tooele opened in April, resulting in less waste coming to the Salt Lake City-County landfill. County public works officials looked for a new hauler to bring a guaranteed amount, which Western promised for some $5 less per ton.

Corroon also insists the new deal will not affect the life of the landfill, projected near 60 years.

Rick Graham, chairman of the county-city's joint landfill council, notes that board has given its unanimous approval for the contract, which county Public Works Director Linda Hamilton calls "strictly a business decision."

An attorney for the council and deputies for the District Attorney's Office disagreed over whether the ability to sign a new waste contract rests with the mayor or legislative body, but conceded it is not "clear cut."

djensen@sltrib.com

In other county news:

A $48 million open-space bond, destined for the November ballot, was amended to divide the money between uses. The County Council agreed - if voters approve the measure - to allocate half the money for open space and trails and the other half to buy land for parks.

To honor downtown Salt Lake City's now-defunct Japan Town, the council passed a resolution to rename 100 South between 200 West and 300 West "Japantown Street." The move, pushed by Councilman Randy Horiuchi, would mirror similar commemorative street names across the country. The city would have to sign off on the name change.

Ballet West will see a permanent downtown headquarters, thanks to a $3.6 million purchase deal for three buildings at 52 West 200 South. The move - which also will allow the county to create a new lobby for neighboring Capitol Theatre - passed 7-0.