REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION MAY 14, 2025 6:00 PM CITY HALL ROOM 1001 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Karina Camara, at Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov or via phone at 512-978-0751. AGENDA Members: Gerry Acuna, Chair Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair Melissa Caudle Caitlin Griffith Amanda Masino Melissa Rothrock Michael Drohan Seth Whaland CALL MEETING TO ORDER Ali Ishaq Iris Suddaby John L. Harris PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on April 09, 2025. ACTION ITEMS 2. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission. 3. Approve appointment of two members and one chair for the Construction & Demolition Reform Committee for the 2025 calendar year. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Resource Recovery FY26-30 Forecast Presentation, by Victoria Rieger, Finance Manager of Austin Resource Recovery. 5. Staff briefing on the status of Austin Resource Recovery Operational and Administrative projects by Richard McHale, Director of Austin Resource Recovery. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Karina Camara at Austin Resource Recovery, at (512) 978-0751 or email Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov , for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Zero Waste Advisory Commission, please contact Gustavo Valle at (512) 974-4350 4350 or via email Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov or Karina Camara at Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov at (512) 978-0751.
To: From: Date: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery May 14, 2025 Subject: Director’s Monthly Report to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission 2025 Annual TXSWANA Conference Austin hosted a well-attended 2025 Annual TxSWANA Conference last month, April 20-23rd. The conference included solid waste education and trade in Texas with opportunities to explore the latest in equipment, waste management trends, and regulatory updates. As the host City, the department coordinated opportunities to visit local facilities, including the Recycle and Reuse Drop Off Center and had several staff that presented, including the following sessions: • Disaster Debris Response & Cost Accounting (David McCluggage, Donald Hardee, Samuel Gilbert, Keri Greenwalt) • Talk Trust, Not Trash: The Importance of Community Engagement (Megan Oberdoerster, Lauren Hust) • Austin Resource Recovery ISO 9001:2015 Implementation Project (William Purcell, Marsha Cochran, Erika Phillips, Janet Goode-Gilbert) • Empowered Leaders, Resilient Teams: Driving Efficiency in a Growing City (Monica Allen) Austin Energy’s Electric Lawn Equipment Exchange On April 26, 2025, ARR participated in Austin Energy’s Electric Lawn Equipment Exchange at the Austin Public Health Facility at 2800 Webberville Road. Customers enrolled in the Customer Assistance Program (CAP) were invited to participate in the event. Customers were allowed to drop off their gas-powered string trimmers and blowers and receive a battery powered electric trimmer and/or electric blower in return. ARR’s role was to receive the gas-powered equipment with on-site staff and bring the equipment to the Recycle and Reuse Drop-Off Center (RRDOC) at 2514 Business Center Drive. From there it was packaged for recycling through current contracted vendors. In total, 66 units were exchanged. There have been preliminary conversations of another event later this year. ARR PARD Cleanup Initiatives Resolution No. 20240814-027 directed Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) to provide recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on how we can further prevent and abate litter in City parks. ARR began cleaning several PARD locations through March and April. The cleanups focused both on illegal dumping and homeless encampment removal. Cleanups were conducted in the Onion Creek Greenbelt (Brandt Rd), Walnut Creek-East (Old Manor Rd), Levander Loop, Govalle Park and Yaupon/Spicewood Springs. Crews removed a total of 360 tons of trash/debris. They also diverted 12 tons of material such as metals, tires and shopping carts from the locations. The importance of these cleanups keeps PARD land clean and trash from entering waterways. Below is a snapshot of the …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION APRIL 09, 2025 6:00 PM CITY HALL ROOM 1001 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Karina Camara, at Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov or via phone at 512-978-0751. AGENDA Members: Gerry Acuna, Chair Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair Melissa Caudle Caitlin Griffith Amanda Masino Melissa Rothrock Michael Drohan Seth Whaland Ali Ishaq Iris Suddaby John L. Harris CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on February 12, 2025. 2. Approve the minutes of the Special Called Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on March 20, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS ACTION ITEMS and return trip fees. 1. Discussion and action to amend the administrative rules for the placement of carts for collection STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding AISD Recycling Efforts and Policies, Darien Clary, Austin Independent School District Director of Sustainability. 4. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery Recycling Guidelines and Processes, by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery. 5. Staff briefing regarding the Proposed Department Rule Amendments for placement of carts for collection and return trip fees, by Jason McCombs, Strategic Initiatives Division Manager for Austin Resource Recovery. 6. Staff briefing on the status of Austin Resource Recovery Operational and Administrative projects by Ron Romero, Assistant Director of Austin Resource Recovery. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Karina Camara at Austin Resource Recovery, at (512) 978-0751 or email Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov , for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas …
Ze ro Wa s t e @ Aus t in ISD Pre s e nt a t ion t o: Cit y of Aus t in Ze ro Wa s t e Advis ory Commit t e e April 8 , 20 25 Da rie n Cla ry Dire ct or of Sus t a ina bilit y Aus t in Inde pe nde nt School Dis t rict We ’ll t a lk a bout … 1 Fra me work & Policie s Policie s in Pla ce 2 Init ia t ive s Init ia t ive s 3 St a ffing & Pa rt ne rs St a ffing & Pa rt ne rs 4 Cha lle nge s & Succe s s e s Succe s s e s & Cha lle nge s 1 Fra me work & Policie s Brie f His t ory: Sus t a ina bilit y in Policy & Pla nning New schools designed to green building standards Board passed Sustainability resolution Sustainability & Outdoor Learning centered in Facilities Master Plan & Educational Specifications Construction Design Specs require green building certification and outdoor learning 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 2024 Board adopted Sustainability Policy 2017 $1B Bond Program: 19 new schools, plus renovations 1st Sustainability Plan completed 2022 $2B Bond Program: 14 new schools, 19 major additions/renovations, plus other projects Environmental Stewardship Advisory Committee Formalized AISD Sus t a ina bilit y Act ion Are a s Teaching & Learning Infrastructure & Operations Community Engagement Energy Water Zero Waste Procurement Transportation Air Quality Food Nature s a e r A n o i t c A AISD Sus t a ina bilit y Act ion Are a s Teaching & Learning Infrastructure & Operations Community Engagement Energy Water Zero Waste Procurement Transportation Air Quality Food Nature s a e r A n o i t c A Policie s & Proce dure s 20 11 Boa rd Policy for Environme nt a l St e wa rds hip Policie s in Te xa s He a lt h & Sa fe t y Code Pla ce re fe re nce d in AISD Building, Grounds , & Equipme nt Ma na ge me nt Policy Init ia t ive s 20 11 AISD Environme nt a l Sus t a ina bilit y Boa rd …
ZWAC Recycling Presentation Ron Romero Assistant Director Austin Resource Recovery History • 1986: Curbside recycling introduced, source-separated, labor-intensive. • Late 1980s - Early 1990s: Introduction of MRFs, shift to dual-stream recycling. • 1992: PAYT pilot program introduced city-owned recycling bins. • 2008: Single-stream recycling pilot program. Recycling Collection Partnership • To increase their recycling collection efforts, Austin Resource Recovery partners with Balcones Recycling and Texas Disposal Systems. • Balcones Recycling handles 60% of residential curbside residential curbside recycling and TDS gets 40% of recycling. How it works Recycling Collection • Collected Recycling materials include: old corrugated cardboard, old newspaper, mixed paper, used aluminum beverage cans and bi-metal. • Aseptic packaging and polycoated paper will be collected starting in Summer 2025. Decline in Recycling Tonnage Collection • Changes in Consumption Patterns • Economic Conditions • Contamination Issues • Changes in the material Participation/Setout Studies 2024 • Two recycling setout studies were conducted from 03/24/2024 – 04/05/2024 (Spring) 10/21/2024 – 11/01/2024 (Fall) • All City of Austin Council districts were audited twice. Setout Rate Breakdown Summary of Findings April vs October 2024 October ’24 - Overall Recycling Setout Rate: 83.7% April ’24 - Recycling Setout Rate: 85.9% October ‘24 - Lowest Setout Rate: District 8 at 70.3% April ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: District 1 at 77.2% October ‘24 - Highest Setout Rate: District 7 at 94.3% April ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: District 1 at 94.5% Summary of Findings April vs October 2024 High and Low Setout Days October ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: Mondays at 77.4% April ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: Mondays at 84.7% October ’24 - Highest Setout Rate: Fridays at 87.9% April ’24 - Highest Setout Rate: Fridays at 88.4% All City of Austin districts were audited twice Questions
Proposed Department Rule Amendments for Residential Collections Jason McCombs, Division Manager April 2025 1 What are administrative rules? Administrative Rules assist a Department of the City of Austin in the implementation, administration, and enforcement of City of Austin Code and operating requirements of the Department. Austin Code § 15-6-3(B) requires ARR to present proposed rule changes to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission for consideration and recommendation to City Council. City Council will approve, modify or disapprove of the proposed rule.” Department Administrative Rules are online at: library.municode.com/TX/Austin 2 Austin Resource Recovery Rule Amendment Process January February March April May or June Present Proposed Department Rule Amendment to ZWAC Proposed Rule Posted to Speak Up Austin. 30 Day Minimum Staff Review of Public Comments Present Rule Amendments to ZWAC & CWEP for consideration Council Consideration of Department Rule Amendment 3 Current Identified Department Rule Amendments Residential Services Rule Revisions 1. Single Family Residential Collection Services (4.1 & New Section 4.2) – clarify rules related single family residences [adopted by City Council, November 2024] 2. Placement of Carts for Collection (6.1) – amend set out times to align with department practices and other changes related to collection of carts. 3. Extra trash (6.3), Drop Off Services (5.8), Trash, Recycling, Organics, Bulk, Brush, HHW Collection Guidelines (7.1, 7.3, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9) – amend rules to reflect department practices and on-demand services 4. Small Multi-family Residential Collection Services (New section, 4.3) – new section to clarify rules related to residences with 2-4 dwelling units. 5. Commercial Collection Services (Existing 4.2, to be moved to 4.4) – clarify services provided to commercial customers. Proposed Rule Amendment for Residential Collection Services 6.0 Placement for collection, maintenance of carts, and additional fees. 6.1 Placement of Carts for Collection 6.1.1 6.1.2 6.1.3 6.1.5 6.1.7 6.1.9 6.1.10 Defines when return trip fees will be assessed. Late Cart set out time modified to align with current operations (5:30 a.m.) Cart set out time modified to align with current operations (5:30 a.m.) Aligned cart spacing with existing outreach and added placement (no bike paths and side walks) Excess trash, recycling, yard trimming, and small branch set out language clarified to align with current operations and outreach. Clarifying language that customers may be back- billed if an audit identifies discrepancies. Defines return trip fees as when a vehicle returns to a premises by request of a customer. set out, contamination, or …
To: Zero Waste Advisory Commission From: Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery Date: April 9, 2025 Subject: Director’s Monthly Report to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Universal Recycling Ordinance The Universal Recycling Ordinance annual reporting period is open each fiscal year from October 1 through February 1. This year the department migrated to the public facing an online reporting system to a new software and database system. There is always concern when launching a new software platform, but this inaugural run was largely incident free, and the software programs are running smoothly and effectively. Public reporting rates continue to lag behind the anticipated performance. As of January 30, 43% of URO affected properties have been reported. Staff plan to take additional measures throughout the fiscal year to improve online submission rates. A strategic plan has been developed to deliver outreach, including email or mailed letters to non-submitting properties throughout the summer. Outreach is also being coordinated with the Austin Apartment Association, including a February 13 webinar. More information at: www.austinaptassoc.com/events. Circular Accelerator and Showcase applications open The Circular Austin Showcase provides the opportunity for circular economy businesses and entrepreneurs to compete for a cash prize in August each year. The Circular Austin Accelerator helps entrepreneurs improve their circular business ideas through workshops and 1:1 technical assistance. Applications were extended thru March 30. Learn more at: www.austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Fix-It Austin – Household Item Repair On April 5, a Fix-It Clinic will be held at St. John’s Library (7500 Blessing Ave; 78752) from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents can bring broken household items and learn to fix them with guidance from skilled coaches. There will be a drop-off period the week leading up to the clinic, for those who need something fixed but are unable to attend the event. Learn more at: www.austintexas.gov/FixIt. Fix-It Austin – Textile Mending Services and Education On April 19, The Windsor Park Library (5833 Westminster, 78723) is hosting a Fix-It Austin Partner event offering mending services and education as a part of their Earth Day celebration. Residents can bring torn, ripped, or otherwise damaged textile items and learn how to fix them alongside skilled sewing coaches. Library staff will lead this event with ARR providing sewing machines, tools, and supplies. Learn more at: www.austintexas.gov/FixIt. Electric Vehicle Purchase Austin Resource Recovery recently took delivery of the department’s first electric collection vehicle, an important step in helping the …
ZWAC Recycling Presentation Ron Romero Assistant Director Austin Resource Recovery History • 1986: Curbside recycling introduced, source-separated, labor-intensive. • Late 1980s - Early 1990s: Introduction of MRFs, shift to dual-stream recycling. • 1992: PAYT pilot program introduced city-owned recycling bins. • 2008: Single-stream recycling pilot program. Recycling Collection Partnership • To increase their recycling collection efforts, Austin Resource Recovery partners with Balcones Recycling and Texas Disposal Systems. • Balcones Recycling handles 60% of residential curbside residential curbside recycling and TDS gets 40% of recycling. How it works Recycling Collection • Collected Recycling materials include: old corrugated cardboard, old newspaper, mixed paper, used aluminum beverage cans and bi-metal. • Aseptic packaging and polycoated paper will be collected starting in Summer 2025. TDS Recycling Composition Study 11/16/2024 ONP #8 - Old Newspaper: 9.75% OCC-Old Corrugated Cardboard: 19.67% Mixed Paper: 7.9% Plastic Bottles - PETE: 2.34% HDPE Natural: 0.6% HDPE Color: 0.71% Mixed Plastics 3 - 7: 2.56% MRP (Mixed Rigid Plastics): 0.56% UBC Alum-Used Beverage Cans: 2.13% Tin Cans: 1.47% Scrap Metal: 1.05% Glass: 28.25% Residuals , Trash, & Wood: 23.01% Decline in Recycling Tonnage Collection • Changes in Consumption Patterns • Economic Conditions • Contamination Issues • Changes in the material Participation/Setout Studies 2024 • Two recycling setout studies were conducted from 03/24/2024 – 04/05/2024 (Spring) 10/21/2024 – 11/01/2024 (Fall) • All City of Austin Council districts were audited twice. Setout Rate Breakdown Summary of Findings April vs October 2024 April ’24 - Recycling Setout Rate: 85.9% October ’24 - Overall Recycling Setout Rate: 83.7% April ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: District 1 at 77.2% October ‘24 - Lowest Setout Rate: District 8 at 70.3% April ’24 - Highest Setout Rate: District 7 at 94.5% October ‘24 - Highest Setout Rate: District 7 at 94.3% Summary of Findings April vs October 2024 High and Low Setout Days April ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: Mondays at 84.7% October ’24 - Lowest Setout Rate: Mondays at 77.4% April ’24 - Highest Setout Rate: Fridays at 88.4% October ’24 - Highest Setout Rate: Fridays at 87.9% All City of Austin districts were audited twice Questions
ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Thursday, April 9th, 2025 The Zero Waste Advisory Commission convened in a REGULAR meeting on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at City Hall Chambers, 301 W 2nd St. Austin, Texas 78701 Chair Acuna called the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Gerry Acuna, Chair; Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair; Commissioner Iris Suddaby; Commissioner Seth Whaland Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Amanda Masino; Commissioner Melissa Caudle; Commissioner Michael Drohan PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on February 12, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the regular Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting of February 12, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Steyaert’s motion, Commissioner Drohan’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioners Rothrock, Commissioner Griffith, Commissioner Ishaq and Commissioner Harris absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Special Called Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on March 20, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Special Called Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting of March 20, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Whaland’s motion, Commissioner Steyaert’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioners Rothrock, Commissioner Griffith, Commissioner Ishaq and Commissioner Harris absent. 1 ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and action to amend the administrative rules for the placement of carts for collection and return trip fees. The motion approving the proposed amendments for the administrative rules for the placement of carts for collection and return trip fees was approved on Commissioner Drohan’s motion, Commissioner Masino’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioners Rothrock, Commissioner Griffith, Commissioner Ishaq and Commissioner Harris absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding AISD Recycling Efforts and Policies, Darien Clary, Austin Independent School District Director of Sustainability. The presentation was made by Darien Clary, Director of Sustainability of Austin Independent School District. 5. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery Recycling Guidelines and Processes, by Ron Romero, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery. The presentation was made by Ron Romero, Assistant Director of Austin Resource Recovery. 6. Staff briefing regarding the Proposed Department Rule Amendments for placement of carts for collection and return trip fees, by Jason McCombs, Strategic Initiatives Division Manager for Austin Resource Recovery. The …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION MARCH 20, 2025 6:00 PM CITY HALL ROOM 1001 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Gustavo Valle, at Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov or via phone at 512-974-4350. AGENDA Members: Gerry Acuna, Chair Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair Melissa Caudle Cathy Gattuso Caitlin Griffith Amanda Masino Craig Nazor Melissa Rothrock Michael Drohan Seth Whaland Vacant CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve Commission's Recommendations for FY26 & FY27 Budget Goals FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Gustavo Valle at Austin Resource Recovery, at (512) 974-4350 or email Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov , for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Electric Utility Commission, please contact Gustavo Valle at (512) 974-4350 4350 or via email Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov or Karina Camara at Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov at (512) 978-0751 or via email at Claudia.Quiroa@AustinTexas.gov.
Resolution: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Whereas, It is the Responsibility of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to review, evaluate and make recommendations to City Council, City Management and City Staff regarding policies concerning solid waste, recycling, organic and heavy brush collection pursuant to its Zero Waste Master Plan Goals; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery is one of four Enterprise Departments within the City of Austin and is responsible for meeting its annual financial responsibilities through sound budgeting and efficient customer rate setting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery has established waste diversion and circular economy programs such as MoveOutATX, Fix-it and Repair Clinics and Zero Waste Business Incentive and Rebate Programs; and Whereas, Implementation and/or adherence to City policies must be reflected in the process of planning for future disposal and diversion challenges within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas and supporting Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), who is responsible for implementing such Policies and Operations; and Whereas, in 2000 the City of Austin adopted a comprehensive Master Plan for future garbage, recycling, organic and brush collection within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas area; and Whereas, The City of Austin has grown dramatically in population, development and competitiveness over the past five years and is in need of disposal options in the northern portion of Austin, Travis County, Texas; and Whereas, the 2024-25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget recommendation was seeking to provide competitive compensation for support and collection staff and for the development of a much more efficient and cost effective North Austin Transfer and Hazardous Waste facility which will minimize employee attrition and provide much needed disposal, recycling and hazardous waste drop off options for north, northeast and west Austin residents seeking more comprehensive garbage, recycling, household hazardous waste and organic and brush disposal and collection options; and Whereas, it is the goal of the Commission to more closely adhere to our Zero Waste Master Plan’s diversion goals while acknowledging the future financial demands of unforeseen weather and environmental events facing ARR in meeting these evolving responsibilities beginning with the 2025-2026 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, Be It Further Resolved the Zero Waste Advisory Commission of the City of Austin; asks City Management and City Council to support a 2025-26 Budget increase that will fund ARR’s innovative programs, future infrastructure development, provide competitive employee compensation and …
Resolution: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Whereas, It is the Responsibility of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to review, evaluate and make recommendations to City Council, City Management and City Staff regarding policies concerning solid waste, recycling, organic and heavy brush collection pursuant to its Zero Waste Master Plan Goals; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery is one of four Enterprise Departments within the City of Austin and is responsible for meeting its annual financial responsibilities through sound budgeting and efficient customer rate setting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery has established waste diversion and circular economy programs such as MoveOutATX, Fix-it and Repair Clinics and Zero Waste Business Incentive and Rebate Programs; and Whereas, Implementation and/or adherence to City policies must be reflected in the process of planning for future disposal and diversion challenges within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas and supporting Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), who is responsible for implementing such Policies and Operations; and Whereas, in 2000 the City of Austin adopted a comprehensive Master Plan for future garbage, recycling, organic and brush collection within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas area; and Whereas, The City of Austin has grown dramatically in population, development and competitiveness over the past five years and is in need of disposal options in the northern portion of Austin, Travis County, Texas; and Whereas, the 2024-25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget recommendation was seeking to provide competitive compensation for support and collection staff and for the development of a much more efficient and cost effective North Austin Transfer and Hazardous Waste facility which will minimize employee attrition and provide much needed disposal, recycling and hazardous waste drop off options for north, northeast and west Austin residents seeking more comprehensive garbage, recycling, household hazardous waste and organic and brush disposal and collection options; and Whereas, it is the goal of the Commission to more closely adhere to our Zero Waste Master Plan’s diversion goals while acknowledging the future financial demands of unforeseen weather and environmental events facing ARR in meeting these evolving responsibilities beginning with the 2025-2026 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, Be It Further Resolved the Zero Waste Advisory Commission of the City of Austin; asks City Management and City Council to support a 2025-26 Budget increase that will fund ARR’s innovative programs, future infrastructure development, provide competitive employee compensation and …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Zero Waste Advisory Commission Recommendation Number (20250320-1): FY26 & 27 Whereas, It is the Responsibility of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to review, evaluate and make recommendations to City Council, City Management and City Staff regarding policies concerning solid waste, recycling, organic and heavy brush collection pursuant to its Zero Waste Master Plan Goals; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery is one of four Enterprise Departments within the City of Austin and is responsible for meeting its annual financial responsibilities through sound budgeting and efficient customer rate setting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; and Whereas, Austin Resource Recovery has established waste diversion and circular economy programs such as MoveOutATX, Fix-it and Repair Clinics and Zero Waste Business Incentive and Rebate Programs; and Whereas, Implementation and/or adherence to City policies must be reflected in the process of planning for future disposal and diversion challenges within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas and supporting Austin Resource Recovery (ARR), who is responsible for implementing such Policies and Operations; and Whereas, in 2000 the City of Austin adopted a comprehensive Master Plan for future garbage, recycling, organic and brush collection within the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas area; and Whereas, The City of Austin has grown dramatically in population, development and competitiveness over the past five years and is in need of solid waste drop off options in the northern portion of Austin, Travis County, Texas; and Whereas, the 2024-25 Austin Resource Recovery Budget recommendation was seeking to provide competitive compensation for support and collection staff and for the development of a much more efficient and cost effective North Austin Transfer and Hazardous Waste facility which will minimize employee attrition and provide much needed solid waste, recycling and hazardous waste drop off options for North, Northeast and West Austin residents seeking more comprehensive garbage, recycling, household hazardous waste and organic and brush collection and dropoff options; and Whereas, it is the goal of the Commission to more closely adhere to our Zero Waste Master Plan’s diversion goals while acknowledging the future financial demands of unforeseen weather and environmental events facing ARR in meeting these evolving responsibilities beginning with the 2025-2026 Budget cycle; Now Therefore, Be It Further Resolved the Zero Waste Advisory Commission of the City of Austin; asks City Management and City Council to support a 2025-26 Budget increase that will fund …
ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES Thursday, March 20th, 2025 The Zero Waste Advisory Commission convened in a SPECIAL CALLED meeting on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, at City Hall Chambers, 301 W 2nd St. Austin, Texas 78701 Chair Acuna called the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners Commissioner Seth Whaland in Attendance: Gerry Acuna, Chair; Commissioner Michael Drohan; Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair; Commissioner Melissa Rothrock; Commissioner John L. Harris; Commissioner Melissa Caudle PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. ACTION ITEMS 1. Approve Commission's Recommendations for FY26 & FY27 Budget Goals The motion to approve the Zero Waste Advisory Commission's Recommendations for FY26 & FY27 Budget Goals was approved on Commissioner Drohan’s motion, Commissioner Whaland’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioner Masino, Commissioner Griffith Commissioner Ishaq and Commissioner Suddaby absent. ADJOURNMENT Chair Acuna adjourned the meeting at 6:14 p.m. without objection. The minutes were unanimously approved at the April 9, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Whaland’s motion, Commissioner Steyaert’s second on a 7-0 vote. 1
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION FEBRUARY 12, 2025 6:00 PM CITY HALL ROOM 1001 301 W 2ND ST AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 Some members of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Karina Camara, at Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov or via phone at 512-978-0751. AGENDA Members: Gerry Acuna, Chair Ian Steyaert, Vice Chair Melissa Caudle Cathy Gattuso Caitlin Griffith Amanda Masino Craig Nazor Melissa Rothrock Michael Drohan Seth Whaland Vacant CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting on January 8, 2025. ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action of proposed merger of the Resource Management Commission and the Zero Waste Advisory Commission. DISCUSSION ITEMS collection to on demand bulk collection. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Discussion of the development of a hybrid model on the transition from twice a year bulk 4. Staff briefing regarding the Invitation For Bid process by James Scarboro and Matthew Duree, Financial Services Department. 5. Staff briefing regarding the Austin diversion rate calculation and other metrics, by Gena McKinley, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery. 6. Staff briefing on the status of Austin Resource Recovery Operational and Administrative projects as well as public outreach efforts by Gena McKinley, Assistant Director of Austin Resource Recovery. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Karina Camara at Austin Resource Recovery, at (512) 978-0751 or email Karina.Camara@AustinTexas.gov , for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Zero Waste Advisory Commission, please contact Gustavo Valle at (512) 974-4350 4350 or via email Gustavo.Valle@AustinTexas.gov …
