Agenda — original pdf
Agenda
Zero Waste Advisory Commission Homepage
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Item 002 - Routeware Inc RCA — original pdf
RCA Cover Sheet for ZWAC-Revised May 2022 DIGITAL PLATFORM FOR WASTE AND COLLECTION SERVICES Council: 11/20/2025 ZWAC: 11/12/2025 OVERVIEW 1. Requested Contract Term, Authorization, and Current Budget Length of contract and total authorization: Authorize a contract for Digital Platform for Waste and Collection Services for Austin Resource Recovery Department with Routeware, Inc., for a term of 3 years in an amount not to exceed $594,000. ARR current fiscal year budget: Funding in the amount of $198,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Operating Budget of Austin Resource Recovery. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. 2. Solicitation Information Solicitation No: N/A # of bids received: N/A # of non-responsive bids received: N/A Length of time solicitation was out on the street: N/A Was the time extended? N/A Issued date: N/A Closed date: N/A Major Scope Change(s): The following items have been added to the SOW: • An appointment scheduler that allows customers to schedule appointments at the Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center; • A special collections tool that allows customers to schedule on-demand bulk, brush and HHW; • A waste sorting game that allows customers to test their sorting knowledge; and • A mobile app for customers to access all the ReCollect tools easily. 3. Previous/Current Contract Information Previous contract: Yes Contract number: NC200000022 Contract length and authorization: 5 Years with one 1-year holdover, $372,998.02 Contract actual spend: $317,589.04 Current status: Active, new contract needed due to current contract expiring. Contract execution date: 12/04/2019 Contract expiration date: 12/03/2025 RCA Cover Sheet for ZWAC-Revised May 2022 4. Notes/Other This contract will provide Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) with a mobile application, which allows customers to view their collection schedules; schedule bulk, brush and household and hazardous waste collection; schedule appointments at the Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center; and search proper disposal methods for various items. The platform also enables ARR to send time-sensitive alerts and service updates directly to users. This contract supports the City’s efforts to keep residents informed and educated about their solid waste services, promotes proper disposal, recycling and waste management practices. While some vendors may offer individual components of these services, no other vendor delivers the full suite of features in a single, integrated package. The full suite of required includes customer collection calendars, service alert messaging, collection features reminders, campaign messaging, a disposal lookup tool, a waste sorting game, …
Item 003 - Keep Austin Beautiful Draft RCA — original pdf
City of Austin Recommendation for Action File #: 25-2417, Agenda Item #: 49. 11/20/2025(cid:4) Posting Language Approve an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Austin Resource Recovery Operating Budget Special Revenue Fund (Ordinance No. 20250813-008) to accept and appropriate $35,000 in grant funds from Keep Austin Beautiful (KAB), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, for the purchase and installation of public litter and recycling containers. Funding: $35,000 is available from KAB. A City funding match is not required. Lead Department Austin Resource Recovery Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $35,000 is available from Keep Austin Beautiful. A City funding match is not required. A fiscal note is attached. Prior Council Action: Click or tap here to enter text. For More Information: Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery, 512-974-4301; Amy Slagle, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery, 512-974-4302. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: Click or tap here to enter text. Additional Backup Information: Keep Austin Beautiful (KAB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging the community in building a cleaner, more beautiful Austin through education, volunteerism, and community partnerships. Established in 1985, KAB works collaboratively with residents, schools, and local businesses to promote litter prevention, waste reduction, and environmental stewardship. Each year, the organization mobilizes thousands of volunteers in citywide cleanup and beautification events, provides environmental education programs to students, and supports neighborhood groups in local improvement projects. Through these initiatives, Keep Austin Beautiful plays a vital role in enhancing the city’s sustainability goals and strengthening community pride across Austin. Keep Austin Beautiful (KAB) will grant to the City of Austin $35,000 for the purchase and installation of public litter and recycling containers. Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) will support the procurement, placement, installation, and ongoing maintenance of the litter and recycling containers in locations consistent with City operational priorities. ARR and KAB will collaborate on container branding with both organizations’ logos displayed to recognize the partnership and grant support. City of Austin Page 1 of 1 Printed on 11/6/2025 powered by Legistar™ DRAFT(cid:5) (cid:6)
Item 006 - Circular Economy Presentation — original pdf
Towards a Circular City Maddie Morgan Circular Economy Program Manager Why we do this work Zero Waste Goal Reduce waste by 90% Climate Equity Plan Net-zero community- wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 New Plastics Economy Global Commitment Reduce & eliminate problematic plastics 2 3 Circular Economy Program Support Circular Businesses Change Behavior Lead by Example 4 Supporting Circular Businesses and Entrepreneurs In partnership with Economic Development Technical assistance Conduct individual business consultations to understand challenges, growth opportunities, and provide resources Entrepreneurs, small to medium sized enterprises, nonprofits Goal: meet with 20 enterprises quarterly 6 Roundtables and networking events Host roundtables and workshops, as time and bandwidth allows Circular Connect and Share: annual networking and professional development event 7 Circular Showcase Est. 2020 Pitch competition for circular businesses $10,000 cash prize Applications open thru November 16. Eligibility requirements: Focused on circular economy, zero waste or sustainability In operation for at least 12 months < $500,000 in lifetime outside funding Annual revenue between $35,000 and $250,000 or raised > $100,000 to date Located within Austin city limits www.austintexas.gov/circularshowcase Save the date! May 14, 2026 8 Circular Accelerator Est. 2023 Three-month program with evening workshops and business coaching Culminates in soft pitch; top 3 earn spot in Showcase to compete for $2,000 Applications open thru November 16 Eligibility requirements: Idea focused on circular economy, zero waste or sustainability Annual revenue < $35,000 Outside funding < $35,000 Founder or representative lives or attends school in Austin city limits www.austintexas.gov/circularshowcase 9 Encouraging Circular Behaviors Austin Reuse Directory Online resource for Austinites to find where to donate, buy used, rent, refill and fix items. ~550 listings Annual campaign Recently added ability to track what search combinations people are making FY25: Added 50 new listings 22,500 visitors 10% return rate Newly added community event calendar featuring reuse, repair and upcycling events in the area www.austinreusedirectory.com 11 12 13 MoveOutATX Est. 2018 End-of-July program to rehome usable items during West Campus move-out Host temporary donation stations Partner with 6-10 reuse organizations Facilitate the Free Furniture Market (est’d in 2022) Tons diverted Furniture pieces rehomed Economic value 21.5 271 819 3,738 $46,537 $639,247 FY25 Since FY18 austintexas.gov/moveoutatx 14 Fix-It Austin Est. Fall 2015 Repair education …
Item 007 - ARR Operations and Administrative Projects Update — original pdf
To: From: Date: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery November 12, 2025 Subject: Director’s Monthly Report to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Circular Accelerator and Showcase Applications Open The City of Austin offers pathways to support circular entrepreneurs and small to mid-sized enterprises. Opportunities to compete for cash prizes and improve their circular business ideas through workshops and technical assistance is available every year through the Circular Showcase and Circular Accelerator programs. Applications will be open October 13 to November 16. For more information visit https://austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Brownfields Community Wide Assessment Grant The City of Austin was awarded a $500,000 grant from the EPA to assess and sustainably reuse brownfield sites. Brownfields are defined as real property where expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be hindered by the potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. Over a four-year period, this funding will support environmental site assessments, asbestos and lead paint surveys, as well as cleanup and reuse planning. These efforts facilitate turning underutilized properties into assets benefitting the community, including affordable housing, parkland, and green spaces. Learn more at: https://www.austintexas.gov/brownfields International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certification The department is seeking possible certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in December 2025. ISO is a non-governmental body that establishes voluntary standards to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency across products, services, and systems. Solid Waste Service departments in San Antinio and Dallas have achieved this certification demonstrating commitment to improve ISO operational efficiency and at: https://www.iso.org/home.html. confidence. More information on customer increase Fix-It Austin Toy Hospital On November 9 from 1 to 3 p.m. Fix-It Austin hosted a Toy Hospital. Residents learned how to repair broken toys with guidance from skilled volunteers. Learn more at: https://www.austintexas.gov/fixit. Cyclovia ATX On November 8, Austin Resource Recovery provided full-service support for Cyclovia ATX (formerly Viva Streets). Trash and recycling bins were placed across nine designated zones within the Mueller neighborhood and surrounding areas. Additionally. street sweeping services were be provided for bike lanes for the event. Veterans Day Parade On November 11, The Veterans Day Parade was held on Congress Avenue. Austin Resource Recovery staff and vehicles participated in the parade and provided street sweeping services. Central City District Plan: Open Houses Austin Resource Recovery will partner with Austin Planning at their upcoming Open Houses for the Central City District Plan. The in-person event will take place at ACC Rio Grande …
Item 007 - ARR Operations and Administrative Projects Update (ADDITIONAL UPDATES ADDED) — original pdf
To: From: Date: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery November 12, 2025 Subject: Director’s Monthly Report to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Circular Accelerator and Showcase Applications Open The City of Austin offers pathways to support circular entrepreneurs and small to mid-sized enterprises. Opportunities to compete for cash prizes and improve their circular business ideas through workshops and technical assistance is available every year through the Circular Showcase and Circular Accelerator programs. Applications will be open October 13 to November 16. For more information visit https://austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Brownfields Community Wide Assessment Grant The City of Austin was awarded a $500,000 grant from the EPA to assess and sustainably reuse brownfield sites. Brownfields are defined as real property where expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be hindered by the potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. Over a four-year period, this funding will support environmental site assessments, asbestos and lead paint surveys, as well as cleanup and reuse planning. These efforts facilitate turning underutilized properties into assets benefitting the community, including affordable housing, parkland, and green spaces. Learn more at: https://www.austintexas.gov/brownfields International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certification The department is seeking possible certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in December 2025. ISO is a non-governmental body that establishes voluntary standards to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency across products, services, and systems. Solid Waste Service departments in San Antinio and Dallas have achieved this certification demonstrating commitment to improve ISO operational efficiency and at: https://www.iso.org/home.html. confidence. More information on customer increase Fix-It Austin Toy Hospital On November 9 from 1 to 3 p.m. Fix-It Austin hosted a Toy Hospital. Residents learned how to repair broken toys with guidance from skilled volunteers. Learn more at: https://www.austintexas.gov/fixit. Cyclovia ATX On November 8, Austin Resource Recovery provided full-service support for Cyclovia ATX (formerly Viva Streets). Trash and recycling bins were placed across nine designated zones within the Mueller neighborhood and surrounding areas. Additionally. street sweeping services were be provided for bike lanes for the event. Veterans Day Parade On November 11, The Veterans Day Parade was held on Congress Avenue. Austin Resource Recovery staff and vehicles participated in the parade and provided street sweeping services. Central City District Plan: Open Houses Austin Resource Recovery will partner with Austin Planning at their upcoming Open Houses for the Central City District Plan. The in-person event will take place at ACC Rio Grande …
Agenda — original pdf
ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION REFORM COMMITTEE Thursday October 9th, 2025 11:00 AM Cepeda Branch Library 651 N Pleasant Valley Rd, Austin, TX 78702 CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Ian Steyaert (Chair); Amanda Masino; and Gerald Acuna CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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. Meeting minutes; June 9th, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing: Review of potential amendments for Qualified Processors, Registered Evaluators, diversion rate calculations for Qualified Processors, and requiring all projects to use third party verified processors. DISCUSSION 3. Discussion of possible changes to the C&D Recycling Ordinance and rules related to Qualified Processors, Registered Evaluators, and project diversion requirements. 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 4 days before the meeting date. Please email Cahill Ordones at cahill.ordones@austintexas.gov, or call at 512-978-1370, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Construction and Demolition Reform Committee, please contact Cahill Ordones at cahill.ordones@austintexas.gov.
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Item 002 - Qualified Processors Presentation — original pdf
C&D Committee Meeting October 9th, 2025 Overview 1. Qualified Processors vs Registered Evaluators 2. Review objectives identified in past meetings 3. Refresher on RCI presentation from 2021 4. Amendment options Processors vs Evaluators Qualified Processors Registered Evaluators • Located in the Austin Metro Area; • Can weigh inbound mixed materials; materials reclaimed for use from mixed materials; and residual material disposed • Authorizes inspections of its facility by the department • Makes records available for audit by the department • Has average diversion rate validated by RCI or a registered evaluator • Once registered, submits a report each six months with the average diversion rate, the types of materials recovered, and the beneficial uses for the materials. • Registration is valid for two years • Third-party individual or organization that ARR approves to: • Validate average diversion rates through review of QP’s application • Conduct onsite inspections and onsite audits of QPs • Must have operational or consulting experience • Must complete City-approved training • Registration is valid for one year ARR Comprehensive Plan NEAR-TERM GOAL (0-5 YEARS) Assess potential changes to the Qualified Processor rules. 1. Consider requiring all projects to use a Qualified Processor to improve accuracy of contractor reports and incentivize processors to increase diversion rates. 2. Consider policy changes to remove material that is burned from diversion calculations. 3. Align Qualified Processor rules with any changes made to the C&D Ordinance diversion requirements. Source: ARR. 2023 Comprehensive Plan. Chapter 13, "Construction and Demolition" Committee Considerations 1. Require all projects use a Qualified Processor 2. Change how Qualified Processors report and apply 3. Increase the number of Qualified Processors and Registered Evaluators 4. Remove wood derived fuel / biofuel from RCI diversion rate calculations to align with the City’s definition of “Beneficial Use” in § 15-6-1(3) RCI Meeting Review Thorough Process to Become Certified • Registration Application → Onboarding → Application for Certification (desk audit, prequalification, on-site evaluation by RCI evaluator to verify what was found in audit) → Final Certification Certification • Costs ~$8k to get certified + $629/month subscription fee – RCI Rate Structure • Lasts for five years; initial certification is year one • Recertification required each year for years 2 through 5 • New certification happens in year 6 RCI Benefits • Transparent, consistently accurate reporting • Accurate - requires use of scale weights rather than estimated volumes Potential Amendment Changes Committee Consideration …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION OCTOBER 8, 2025 6:00 PM CITY HALL ROOM 1001 301 W 2ND ST. AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 August 13, 2025. ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve the 2026 Zero Waste Advisory Commission Meeting Schedule. 3. Discussion and Action pursuant to Austin Resource Recovery City Council Audit and Finance Committee Report. 4. Recommend authorizing the negotiation and execution of a multi-term contract to provide residential dumpster collection services, with Texas Disposal Systems, for up to 36 months, with two 12-month options, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,500,000. STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing regarding the Transfer Facility, by Amy Slagle, Assistant Director of Austin Resource Recovery 6. Staff briefing on the status of Austin Resource Recovery Operational and Administrative projects by Amy Slagle, 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 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 …
Item 002 - 2026 ZWAC Draft Meeting Schedule — original pdf
Zero Waste Advisory Commission DRAFT 2026 Mee�ng Schedule The Zero Waste Commission meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month, unless otherwise determined by the Commission. Mee�ngs are held at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 301 W. 2nd Street. Changes to the above regarding date, �me or loca�on will be noted on mee�ng agendas. Mee�ng Dates January 14 February 11 April 8 May 13 June 10 July 8 August 12 September 9 October 14 November 10 Cancelled Dates March 11 December 9
Item 004 - Residential Dumpster RCA — original pdf
RCA Cover Sheet for ZWAC-Revised May 2022 RESIDENTIAL DUMPSTER COLLECTION SERVICES SOLICITATION # IFB 1500 RGW1026 ZWAC: 10/08/2025 Council: 11/06/2025 OVERVIEW 1. Requested Contract Term, Authorization, and Current Budget Length of contract and total authorization: Authorize negotiation and execution of a multi- term contract to provide residential dumpster collection services, with Texas Disposal Systems, for up to 36 months, with two 12-month options, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,500,000. ARR current fiscal year budget: $458,333 2. Solicitation Information Solicitation No: IFB 1500 RGW1026 # of bids received: 4 # of non-responsive bids received: 0 Length of time solicitation was out on the street: 37 days Was the time extended? Yes Issued date: 08/04/2025 Closed date: 09/09/2025 3. Previous Contract Information Previous contract: Yes Contract number: MA 1500 NA200000117 Contract length and authorization: 3 years with two 12-months options; $2,100,000 Contract actual spend: $1,168,059.18 Current status: Active; new contract needed due to current contract expiring Contract execution date: 04/09/2020 Contract expiration date: 02/20/2026 4. Notes/Other This contract supports the City’s Zero Waste initiative by ensuring continued and expanded residential dumpster collection services. The Contractor will provide collection, transportation, maintenance, and cleanup of refuse materials generated by residential multi-unit customers within designated metropolitan areas. The Contractor will also adjust dumpster sizes as needed to meet service demands. RCA Cover Sheet for ZWAC-Revised May 2022 This request aligns with departmental and citywide sustainability goals by maintaining essential sanitation services and reducing environmental impact. Performance will be tracked through service reliability metrics, customer satisfaction scores, and type and weight of tonnage collected. CITY OF AUSTIN RECOMMENDATION FOR COUNCIL ACTION CONTRACTOR: TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS INC D/B/A TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS COUNCIL DATE: 11/06/2025 SUBJECT: Authorize a contract for residential dumpster collection services for Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) with Texas Disposal Systems Inc d/b/a Texas Disposal Systems, for an initial term of three years with up to two 1-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $2,500,000. Funding: $458,333 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Resource Recovery. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. LEAD DEPARTMENT: Austin Financial Services CLIENT DEPARTMENT(S): Austin Resource Recovery FISCAL NOTE: Funding in the amount of $458,333 is available in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Operating Budget of Austin Resource Recovery. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. PROCUREMENT: Austin Financial Services issued …
Item 005 - Austin Transfer Station Briefing — original pdf
Austin Transfer Station October 8th, 2024 What Is A Transfer Station? • A facility where solid waste is temporarily collected, sorted, and consolidated before being transferred to larger vehicles for transportation to a landfill, recycling facility, or other final disposal site. Transfer Station Benefits • Reduces GHG emissions • Supports Electrifying Fleet • Provides public disposal opportunities & • Increases storm readiness & operations resiliency • Reduces ARR & City operating expenses reduces blight • Supports City’s Climate Equity Plan • Expands diversion & disposal • Supports ARR Comprehensive Plan opportunities Financial Analysis Factors Consultant reviewed several categories of expenses to evaluate benefit of building a transfer station opposed to direct hauling to disposal facility. Metric Routes Measurement Number of routes eliminated Personnel Reduction in staffing or overtime Vehicles Savings on trucks, fuel, and tolls Construction Capital costs to develop facility including fixed equipment Operating Costs Costs to operate the facility including all personnel costs Site Evaluation Factors • Site Conditions • Operational Cost Efficiency • Potential for Permitting Concerns • Impact on Surrounding Community • Utility Access • Value of Land Parcel • Environmental Justice • Compatibility with CAPCOG Plan • Ease of Vehicle Accessibility • Collection Rate Efficiency The financial viability of a transfer station is largely determined by its proximity to both the new dispatch location at the Northeast Service Center (NESC) and the collection service areas…. Sites…east of I-35 in the north-central and northeast areas are likely to offer stronger financial returns compared to other parts of the City.” - Consultant’s Report Recycle Facility Waste Facility Brush Facility ARR Service Center Compost Facility Sites Evaluated Seattle North Transfer Station Financial Results • Constructing and operating a transfer station would result in an annual cost of approximately $20,000 - $992,000 compared to direct hauling waste prior to accounting for additional revenue from private (non- City) haulers • Breakeven with acceptance of private hauler waste Next Steps September 10, 2025 February 2026 2030 Zero Waste Advisory Commission (ZWAC) Briefing CWEP & ZWAC update on Transfer Station including potential Development Agreement Beginning of FY 2030 Estimated Commencement of Operations City Council Authorization for Property Acquisition City Council Authorization for Development Agreement Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Questions? Richard McHale Director – Austin Resource Recovery 512-974-4301 Richard.McHale@austintexas.gov www.austinrecycles.com
Item 006 - ARR Operations and Administrative Projects Update — original pdf
To: From: Date: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Amy Slagle, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery October 8, 2025 Subject: Director’s Monthly Report to the Zero Waste Advisory Commission Microburst Cleanup Efforts On May 28, 2025, the City of Austin experienced significant impacts from a microburst storm, which caused widespread damage across multiple neighborhoods that included downed tree limbs, leaves, and bulk debris. In response to the storm, ARR mobilized crews to begin cleaning the impacted areas on May 29th. ARR customers submitted over 2,800 service orders via 3-1-1 for storm debris collection. During the thirty-day cleanup ARR crews and contracted debris haulers collected 5,696 tons of storm debris and approximately one ton of bulk material. The Public Drop-off at Hornsby Bend received approximately 2880 tons of material from over 3,600 customer drop-offs. The department produced approximately 34,000 cubic yards of mulch from the microburst event. Annual Reporting for the Universal Recycling Ordinance The City of Austin requires property owners and business managers of commercial and multifamily properties to ensure that their employees and tenants have convenient access to landfill diversion services, which can include single-stream recycling, and composting. Over 15,000 letters are mailed in October to remind property and business managers across Austin to submit an annual diversion report between October 1 and February 1. More information can be found at austintexas.gov/uro. Circular Accelerator and Showcase Applications Open The City of Austin offers pathways to support circular entrepreneurs and small to mid-sized enterprises. Opportunities to compete for cash prizes and improve their circular business ideas through workshops and technical assistance is available every year thru the Circular Showcase and Circular Accelerator programs. Applications will be open October 13-November 16. For more information visit https://austintexas.gov/circularshowcase Zero Waste Advisory Commission (ZWAC) C&D Committee Meeting Austin Resource Recovery is supporting the ZWAC C&D Committee meeting on October 9th at 11:00 a.m. at Cepeda Branch Library. This meeting will convene construction and demolition recycling stakeholders to discuss potential changes to the Construction and Demolition Recycling Ordinance. Sewing Machine Maintenance and Repair Workshop On October 4th at 1 p.m., ARR will host a repair workshop at Windsor Park Library. Residents will learn the basics of how to maintain your sewing machine and tackle common issues. Attendees are encourage to bring their own sewing machine!! Learn more at: austintexas.gov/FixIt. Austin City Limits Music Festival Austin Resource Recovery will be collecting trash and recycling and maintaining bins outside …
Item 005.1 - Austin Transfer Station Briefing (TITLE UPDATED) — original pdf
Austin Transfer Station Zero Waste Advisory Commission October 8th, 2024 What Is A Transfer Station? • A facility where solid waste is temporarily collected, sorted, and consolidated before being transferred to larger vehicles for transportation to a landfill, recycling facility, or other final disposal site. Transfer Station Benefits • Reduces GHG emissions • Supports Electrifying Fleet • Provides public disposal opportunities & • Increases storm readiness & operations resiliency • Reduces ARR & City operating expenses reduces blight • Supports City’s Climate Equity Plan • Expands diversion & disposal • Supports ARR Comprehensive Plan opportunities Financial Analysis Factors Consultant reviewed several categories of expenses to evaluate benefit of building a transfer station opposed to direct hauling to disposal facility. Metric Routes Measurement Number of routes eliminated Personnel Reduction in staffing or overtime Vehicles Savings on trucks, fuel, and tolls Construction Capital costs to develop facility including fixed equipment Operating Costs Costs to operate the facility including all personnel costs Site Evaluation Factors • Site Conditions • Operational Cost Efficiency • Potential for Permitting Concerns • Impact on Surrounding Community • Utility Access • Value of Land Parcel • Environmental Justice • Compatibility with CAPCOG Plan • Ease of Vehicle Accessibility • Collection Rate Efficiency The financial viability of a transfer station is largely determined by its proximity to both the new dispatch location at the Northeast Service Center (NESC) and the collection service areas…. Sites…east of I-35 in the north-central and northeast areas are likely to offer stronger financial returns compared to other parts of the City.” - Consultant’s Report Recycle Facility Waste Facility Brush Facility ARR Service Center Compost Facility Sites Evaluated Seattle North Transfer Station Financial Results • Constructing and operating a transfer station would result in an annual cost of approximately $20,000 - $992,000 compared to direct hauling waste prior to accounting for additional revenue from private (non- City) haulers • Breakeven with acceptance of private hauler waste Next Steps September 10, 2025 February 2026 2030 Zero Waste Advisory Commission (ZWAC) Briefing CWEP & ZWAC update on Transfer Station including potential Development Agreement Beginning of FY 2030 Estimated Commencement of Operations City Council Authorization for Property Acquisition City Council Authorization for Development Agreement Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Questions? Richard McHale Director – Austin Resource Recovery 512-974-4301 Richard.McHale@austintexas.gov www.austinrecycles.com
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Approved Minutes — original pdf
ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 The Zero Waste Advisory Commission convened in a REGULAR meeting on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, at City Hall Room 1001, 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 Melissa Caudle; Commissioner Michael Drohan; Commissioner Ali Ishaq; Commissioner Caitlin Griffith 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 August 13, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the regular Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting of August 13, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Wheland’s motion, Commissioner Steyaert’s second, on a (7-0-1) vote with Commissioner Rothrock & Commissioner Harris absent and Commissioner Ishaq present. ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve the 2026 Zero Waste Advisory Commission Meeting Schedule. The motion approving the 2026 Zero Waste Advisory Commission Meeting Schedule was approved on Vice Chair Steyaert’s motion, Commissioner Suddaby’s second, on a (7-0-1) vote with Commissioner Rothrock & Commissioner Harris absent and Commissioner Ishaq present. 1 3. Discussion and Action pursuant to Austin Resource Recovery City Council Audit and Finance Committee Report. The Zero Waste Advisory Commission held a discussion pursuant to Austin Resource Recovery City Council Audit and Finance Committee Report. 4. Recommend authorizing the negotiation and execution of a multi-term contract to provide residential dumpster collection services, with Texas Disposal Systems, for up to 36 months, with two 12-month options, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,500,000. The motion to recommend the authorization of the negotiation and execution of a multi-term contract to provide residential dumpster collection services, with Texas Disposal Systems, for up to 36 months, with two 12-month options, for a total contract amount not to exceed $2,500,000 was approved on Vice Chair Steyaert’s motion, Commissioner Whaland’s second, on a (7-0-1) vote with Commissioner Rothrock & Commissioner Harris absent and Commissioner Ishaq present. STAFF BRIEFINGS 5. Staff briefing regarding the Transfer Facility, by Amy Slagle, Assistant Director of Austin Resource Recovery The presentation was made by Amy Slagle, Assistant Director of Austin Resource …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION AUGUST 13, 2025 6:00 PM AUSTIN ENERGY HEADQUARTERS/MUELLER ASSEMBLY ROOM 1111A & B 4815 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS 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 May 14, 2025. ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a representative of one member for the Joint Sustainability Committee for the 2025 calendar year. 3. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of an Organics Processing Contract for an amount not to exceed $10 million. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery Safety Program Presentation, by Chad Presley, Chief Administrative Officer of Austin Resource Recovery 5. Staff briefing regarding the Proposed Department Rule Amendments for drop-off services, extra trash, curbside collections and on-demand services, by Jason McCombs, Strategic Initiatives Division Manager of Austin Resource Recovery 6. 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 …
Item 004 - Safety Guidelines Presentation — original pdf
Austin Resource Recovery Safety Chad Presley Chief Administrative Officer Austin Resource Recovery Department ARR’s Mission and Vision Mission We provide essential services that protect people and our planet. Vision Driving the global transformation of traditional waste management to sustainable resource recovery. ARR’s Core Values • Teamwork: Together, we can build a world without waste. • Safety: We provide resources and services to protect employees and the community. • Excellence: We are a highly skilled workforce that strives to exceed expectations. • Accountability: We deliver work with integrity and hold ourselves accountable. • Innovation: Working towards a world with zero waste through local innovation. • Diversity, equity, and inclusion: We work to constantly improve our cultural competence and seek input from underrepresented voices. ARR Operational Environment The Solid Waste Industry is the 4th most dangerous industry in the United States in 2023. Environmental Impact on Operations • ARR Operator working conditions range from freezing temperatures and over 100°F. ARR Operational Environment • ARR serviced 218,999 households in FY24 • Use per FY • Average ARR Crew completes 1,000+ stops/day • ARR Refuse Truck Avg. ~15,255 miles in FY24 • APD Patrol Vehicle Avg. ~ 11,434 miles in FY24 Lost Time Injury Rate Calculation Lost Time Rate = # of Lost Time Claims / Total Hours Worked x 200,000 200,000 = 2,000 Hours per 100 Employees per Year ARR FY24 LT Rate = 23/1,082,093 Hours Worked x 200,000 = 4.25 LTR • The 2023 Solid Waste Collections Industry Standard was 4.30 Safety Improvements Digitization of data collection and reporting tools. • Implemented electronic forms- allows Safety and Management personnel to complete reports on tablets and smartphones. Electronic Forms • Electronic Field Evaluations • Electronic Routine Observations Planned Initiatives • Electronic Incident Reports Safety Improvements • Safety Vehicle Technology Improvements. Safety Improvements • Tripled the size of the PPE Supply warehouse. Safety Improvements • Implemented digital ordering of PPE. Safety Improvements • Installed PPE Vending Machines. Safety Improvements • Gate Checks- Pre-Trip Audits Safety Improvements • Gate Checks- Equipment Checks Safety Improvements • Gate Checks- Water, PPE, and Safety Equipment Checks Safety Improvements • Expanded Dispatch Support Safety Improvements Gate Checks & Improved Supplies to Prevent Heat Illnesses Electrolytes, Cooling Vests, Cooling Face Gaiters, Cooling Towels, Hydration Backpacks Improvements Cont. Gate checks for Equipment Inspections • Mechanical Failures • Vehicle Fire Reduction • FY24- 12 • FY25- 5 (8 months of the current …