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
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 …
This template is a guide for liaisons. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Zero Waste Advisory Commission Zero Waste Advisory Commission Resolution Proposed Merger of Zero Waste Advisory Commission and Resource Management Commission Whereas, a proposal has been made to merge the Resource Management Commission and the Zero Waste Advisory Commission to create a Resource Recovery and Management Commission; 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 efficient budgeting that provide Residents with a safe and cost effective collection and disposal service; Whereas, the Zero Waste Advisory Commission has independently introduced to ARR Staff new service and operational proposals and recommendations that have been implemented and have proven beneficial to Austin residents through improved diversion and disposal options; Whereas, the Zero Waste Advisory Commission petitioned Austin Resource Recovery to develop a long range Master Plan to guide the City’s future disposal, recycling and operational goals for the next 40 years; and Whereas, the purpose of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission is 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 and and This template is a guide for liaisons. Whereas, it is important for all enterprise departments to have an independent Board and/or Commission to provide public oversight and input in assuring the ratepayers are receiving the most efficient and cost effect services possible: Now Therefore Be It Resolved that the Zero Waste Advisory Commission recommends against merging the Zero Waste Advisory Commission with the Resource Management Commission. Resolution Date: February 12, 2025 Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: ___________________________________________________________________ Attest: ________________________________________
Solicitation Process Overview – Competitive Sealed Bidding James Scarboro, Chief Procurement Officer Matthew Duree, Division Chief Zero Waste Advisory Commission February 12, 2025 Agenda • Statutes • Definitions • Conditions • Document • Process • Questions Statutes • Texas Local Government Code – Ch. 252 o Procurement Regulations applicable to Municipalities o Applies to contracts to purchase Goods, General Services, Public Works • Texas Government Code – Ch 2269 o Procurement Regulations applicable to State and Local Governments o Applies to contracts to purchase Construction Services • Other statutes o Ch. 271, Municipalities and Local Govs, purchase Personal and Real Property o More applicable to Procurement, but not explicitly concerning CSB process Definitions • Competitive Sealed Bidding (may go by acronym, “CSB”) o Process, Formal solicitations • Invitation for Bids (goes by acronym, “IFB”) o Document, Publicly available (online) • Definition (NIGP – Institute for Public Procurement) o Method for acquiring goods, services, and construction for public use in which an award is made to the lowest responsive bid and responsible bidder, based solely on the response to the criteria set forth in the Invitation for Bids (IFB); does not include discussions or negotiations with bidders. See also: Formal Bid. Conditions • Contract exceeding $50,000 o Aggregate value • Goods, General Services and Public Works o Not including Professional and Specified Services • Specifications o Detailed description of the design and/or performance characteristics of the goods, general services or public works required • Default Solicitation Process (Most Objective) Document – IFB • Goods and General Services o -------(Process Documents)------- o Solicitation Details (Cover Page) o Instructions -------(Contract Documents)------- o Terms and Conditions o Scope of Work o Attachments -------(Offer Documents)------- o Submittals (for Offerors to Submit with their Bid) Document – IFB • Public Works / Construction o Volume 1 – - Bidding Requirements, Contract Forms and Conditions of Contract - Specifications o Volume 2 – MBE/WBE Procurement Program Package (Subcontracting) o Volume 3 – ROCIP Project Safety Manual Process – CSB • Pre-Solicitation o Department consults with Procurement (to determine need for IFB) o Department provides Specifications (Procurement advises/assists) o Optional Activities - Request for Information (RFI) - Pre-Solicitation Meeting o Procurement assembles IFB (Instructions/Clauses/Submittals) o Department reviews/approves IFB (prior to Publication) Process – CSB • Solicitation o Procurement publishes IFB (Austin Finance Online) o Procurement receives and responds to Questions (Department participates) o Optional - Procurement facilitates Site …
Zero Waste Metrics & Measurements Gena McKinley, Assistant Director February 2025 Zero Waste by 2040 Austin’s Material Generation Res idential Ma na ged by City of Aus tin Commercial & Multifamily Ma na ged by Priva te Ha ulers Data Sources • Res idential • Curbs ide collections • Recycle & Reus e Drop Off Center • Commercial & Multifamily • Contra cted third pa rty s tudies • Self-reported da ta from properties • Licens ed ha uler s elf-reporting Waste Composition Studies Comprehensive Plan Goals • Conduct routine mea s urement of per capita dis pos al ra te a nd capture rate, a nd tra ck over time, a iming for continua l improvement. • Require a ccura te da ta mea s urements in a ll wa s te collection contra cts . wa s te. • Continue to tra ck divers ion rate a s a mea s ure towa rd zero How is Diversion Rate Calculated? Divers ion Rate is a qua ntifica tion of how m uch genera ted wa s te is diverted from being la ndfilled Tons Diverted = Tons recycled + Tons com pos ted + Tons reus ed + Tons Reduced Divers ion Rate = Tons Diverted ÷ Tons Diverted + Tons Dis pos ed Aus tin ha s a city-wide (com m ercia l a nd res identia l) la ndfill divers ion ra te of 37% a s of 2020 The 2020 Com m unity Divers ion Study ca n be found online a t: www.aus tintexas .gov/ divers ion Municipal Diversion Rates City Portland Seattle Austin Minneapolis Phoenix San Antonio Fort Worth Denver Boston Dallas Year 2015 2018 2015 2016 2019 2019 2018 2019 2019 2016 Diversion Rate 47% 57% 42% 37% 36% 36% 30% 23% 21% 21% Year 2023 2023 2020 2018 2022 2024 - 2021 - 2020 Diversion Rate 44% 53% 37% 37% 36% 33% - 33% - 20% Capture Rate • Ca pture ra te is ca lcula ted by determ ining the percenta ge of m a teria l (eg a lum inum ) tha t is pla ced in the blue bin ra ther tha n the tra s h or com pos t. • Ca pture ra te is ca lcula ted: weight of a lum inum ca ns recovered ÷ (a lum inum ca ns recovered + a m …
To: From: Date: Subject: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery February 12, 2025 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 City of Austin offers support to circular entrepreneurs and small to mid-sized enterprises. 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 are open February 3rd through March 16. More information at: www.austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Lamp Repair Workshop On February 15, a lamp repair workshop will be held at Asian American Resource Center. This is a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn the essential skills to troubleshoot and repair lamps. Learn more at: www.austintexas.gov/FixIt. On-Demand On January 13, 2025, ARR began citywide on-demand collections for Brush, Bulk and Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services. On-Demand Brush collection has serviced 568 appointments collecting 105 tons of material. On- Demand Bulk collection has serviced 3,010 appointments. The Bulk program has also diverted 22.5 tons of metals, appliances, electronics, rigid plastics, and tires from disposal area landfills. The HHW program serviced 497 appointments totaling 19.5 tons of material. The programs observed an immediate reduction in overtime hours for employees due to services being scheduled. The use of routing technology to collect scheduled appointments has also reduced the number of miles driven by ARR employees. Furniture Warehouse Grant Update The City of Austin received a SWIFR grant commitment up …
To: From: Date: Subject: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery February 12, 2025 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 City of Austin offers support to circular entrepreneurs and small to mid-sized enterprises. 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 are open February 3rd through March 16. More information at: www.austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Lamp Repair Workshop On February 15, a lamp repair workshop will be held at Asian American Resource Center. This is a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn the essential skills to troubleshoot and repair lamps. Learn more at: www.austintexas.gov/FixIt. On-Demand On January 13, 2025, ARR began citywide on-demand collections for Brush, Bulk and Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services. On-Demand Brush collection has serviced 568 appointments collecting 105 tons of material. On- Demand Bulk collection has serviced 3,010 appointments. The Bulk program has also diverted 22.5 tons of metals, appliances, electronics, rigid plastics, and tires from disposal area landfills. The HHW program serviced 497 appointments totaling 19.5 tons of material. The programs observed an immediate reduction in overtime hours for employees due to services being scheduled. The use of routing technology to collect scheduled appointments has also reduced the number of miles driven by ARR employees. Furniture Warehouse Grant Update The City of Austin received a SWIFR grant commitment up …
