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.
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 …
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 …
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
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 …
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
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 …
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
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 …
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 …
Proposed Department Rule Amendments for ARR Services Jason McCombs, Division Manager August 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 August September October November December/January 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 for consideration & CWEP briefing 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. Drop Off Services (5.8), Extra trash (6.3), 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. 4 Proposed Rule Amendment for ARR Services 5.6 6.2 6.3 Reuse and Recycling Drop Off Locations (formerly 5.8) Drop off procedure to confirm customer status. Photo ID and utility bill. Payments must be with credit or debit card. 5.6.1 5.6.2 5.6.3 Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center rules HHW Drop Off rules Brush drop off rules, includes daily drop off limit of 6 yd3 Maintenance of Carts 6.2.5 Removed (references customers without organics service) Extra Trash, Recycling, and Composting Clarifies extra trash rules and adds details for extra recycling and composting (collected at no additional cost). 5 Proposed Rule Amendment for ARR Services - Curbside 7.1 7.3 7.4 Curbside Trash Collection Guidelines Updates current procedures. Adds details moved from extra trash section regarding carts with lids that cannot close. Curbside Recycling Collection Guidelines …
City of Austin Austin Resource Recovery Chapter 15-6 Administrative Rules 5.1 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Disposal The City of Austin FM 812 Landfill is permanently closed and no longer accepts material for disposal. However, there are several locations in the Austin area where the public may drop off appliances, construction waste, and other large items. 5.2 Street and Boulevard Sweeping The Street Cleaning unit provides frequent street, and boulevard, and bike lane sweeping throughout the City. This service is designed to clean the gutters and limit contaminants from polluting Austin's creeks and drainage ways. 5.3 Litter Control Litter control services, provided by the City's Litter Abatement Division, include litter pick up, litter container management, and illegal dump clean ups. Litter abatement is performed nightly in the downtown central business district with additional litter abatement on the public right-of-way and City of Austin properties scheduled as reported. 5.4 Dead Animal Collection Dead animal collection is provided Monday through Saturdays Sunday as reported on public rights-of-way throughout Austin and from the City's Animal Shelter. 5.5 Alley and Street Flushing Alley and street flushing utilizes a cold water flushing process to clear contaminants from alleys and streets in the Central Business District (CBD). 5.6 Landfill Services The City of Austin FM 812 Landfill is permanently closed and no longer accepts material for disposal. However, there are several locations in the Austin area where the public may drop off appliances, construction waste, and other large items. 5.7 Resource Recovery Center (RRC) 5.7.1 The Resource Recovery Center (RRC) is operated by City staff, or a private contractor, and accepts the following materials at this time: 5.7.1.1 Air Conditioners. 5.7.1.2 Water heaters. 5.7.1.3 Appliances including washers, dryers, stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers. 5.7.1.4 Car batteries. 5.7.1.5 Metals of all types. 5.7.1.6 Used antifreeze. 5.7.1.7 Porcelain Toilets. 5.7.1.8 Used motor oil and oil filters. 5.7.1.9 Automobile tires. Revised July 2025 1 of 12 City of Austin Austin Resource Recovery Chapter 15-6 Administrative Rules 5.6 5.7.2 The list of accepted materials is subject to change. Please contact the RRC for a complete and current list of materials accepted. Further details and contact information can be found online at the Department's website. 5.8 Reuse and Recycling Drop-off Locations The Director may establish additional reuse and recycling centers or drop-off locations operated by City personnel, volunteers, non-profit organizations, or private contractors. A photo ID and a current …
To: From: Date: Zero Waste Advisory Commission Richard McHale, Director, Austin Resource Recovery August 13, 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. ARR Litter Control and Street Cleaning crews were also dispatched to the impacted areas to sweep streets of leaf debris, clean rights-of-way, and remove brush from bike lanes. A second round of storm debris collection was equitably completed at the end of June, ensuring all affected areas received adequate service and that remaining debris was addressed. Circular Austin Showcase Circular Austin Showcase connects circular economy businesses with potential investors in the region. Circular businesses will have a chance to compete in the Showcase on August 26 at 5:30 p.m. at The Cathedral, 2403 E 16th St. This event will be held in Council district 1. Learn more at: austintexas.gov/circularshowcase. Fix-It Austin: Sewing & Textiles Fix-It Clinic Fix-It Austin will host a community sewing repair event on August 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. focused on extending the life of textiles through hands-on skill-building. Participants will work alongside experienced volunteers to learn basic mending techniques such as patching holes, repairing zippers, and fixing seams. This event will be held in Council district 2. Learn more at: austintexas.gov/FixIt. Fix-It Austin: Pants Zipper Replacement Workshop Fix-It Austin will host a zipper replacement sewing event led by a professional fashion designer on August 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cepeda Branch Library. Participants will gain practical experience removing and replacing faulty zippers on pants, while building confidence with sewing machines and learning techniques to extend the life of their clothing. This event will be held in Council district 3. Learn more at: austintexas.gov/FixIt. Austin Resource Recovery FY 2025-2026 Proposed Budget Highlights …
City of Austin Recommendation for Action File #: 25-1500, Agenda Item #: 17. 8/28/2025(cid:4) Posting Language Authorize contracts for compost processing services for Austin Resource Recovery with Employee Owned Nursery Enterprises Ltd. d/b/a Organics By Gosh, and Texas Disposal Systems Landfill, Inc. d/b/a Texas Disposal Systems Inc., for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $10,000,000 divided among the contractors. Funding: $333,333 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 Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Resource Recovery. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $333,333 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Resource Recovery, funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Purchasing Language: The Financial Services Department issued an Invitation for Bids solicitation (IFB) 1500 RGW1023REBID for these services. The solicitation was issued on May 19, 2025, and closed on June 12, 2025. Of the two offers received, the recommended contractors submitted the lowest responsive offers. A complete solicitation package, including a tabulation of the bids received, is available for viewing on the City’s website. This information can currently be found at https://financeonline.austintexas.gov/afo/account_services/solicitation/solicitation_details.cfm?sid=142753. MBE/WBE: This contract will be awarded in accordance with City Code Chapter 2-9B (Minority-Owned and Women- Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). For the services required for this solicitation, there were no subcontracting opportunities; therefore, no subcontracting goals were established. However, one of the recommended contractors identified subcontracting opportunities. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department - Central Procurement at: FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Respondents to the solicitation and their Agents should direct all questions to the Authorized Contact Person identified in the solicitation. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: To be reviewed by the Zero Waste Advisory Commission. City of Austin Page 1 of 2 Printed on 8/8/2025 powered by Legistar™ (cid:5) (cid:6) File #: 25-1500, Agenda Item #: 17. 8/28/2025(cid:4) Additional Backup Information: The purpose of these contracts are to support the City’s Zero Waste initiatives by providing compost processing services, including processing, sorting, and composting of organics, yard waste, food scraps, and food-/oil-soiled compostable paper, as well as marketing services to include detailed data reporting to support the City’s residential curbside compost materials collection services. …
RCA Cover Sheet for ZWAC ORGANICS PROCESSING SERVICES PROGRAM SOLICITATION # (IFB 1500 RGW1023REBID) ZWAC: 08/13/2025 Council: 08/28/2025 OVERVIEW 1. Requested Contract Term, Authorization, and Current Budget Length of contract and total authorization: Authorize contracts for compost processing services for Austin Resource Recovery with Employee Owned Nursery Enterprises Ltd. d/b/a Organics By Gosh, and Texas Disposal Systems Landfill, Inc. d/b/a Texas Disposal Systems Inc., for an initial term of three years with up to two one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $10,000,000 divided among the contractors. ARR current fiscal year budget: Funding: $333,333 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Resource Recovery, funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. 2. Solicitation Information Solicitation No: IFB 1500 RGW1023REBID # of bids received: 2 # of non-responsive bids received: 0 Length of time solicitation was out on the street: 5 weeks Was the time extended? NO Issued date: 05/19/2025 Closed date: 06/23/2025 Major Scope Change(s): Scope changes include adding a preference for vendor to have two processing facilities and to accept more materials such as cotton balls and dryer lint. 3. Previous Contract Information Previous contract: Organics Processing Services Program Contract number: NA200000006 Contract length and authorization: Three years with two 1-year extensions Contract actual spend: $5,013,902.98(as of August 2025) Current status: Active Contract execution date: 10/24/2019 Contract expiration date: 10/1/2025 RCA Cover Sheet for ZWAC 4. Notes/Other The purpose of these contracts are to support the City’s Zero Waste initiatives by providing compost processing services, including processing, sorting, and composting of organics, yard waste, food scraps, and food-/oil-soiled compostable paper, as well as marketing services to include detailed data reporting to support the City’s residential curbside compost materials collection services. The Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) Department’s Comprehensive Plan serves as a guide for the City to achieve its Zero Waste goal of reducing the amount of trash sent to landfills by 90% by the year 2040. Zero Waste is a shift from traditional waste management to materials management, where trash is what remains once we reduce, reuse, recycle, and compost. The compost program is expected to expand from 40,846 tons collected in FY24 towards a potential of up to 60,000 tons of compost materials delivered annually. City vehicles will collect and deliver approximately 50-loads daily from current ARR residential and commercial customers with ARR carts (e.g., small businesses, food permitted …
ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 13th, 2025 The Zero Waste Advisory Commission convened in a REGULAR meeting on Wednesday, August 13th, 2025, at Austin Energy Headquarters/ Mueller Assembly Room 1111A & B, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 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 May 14, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the regular Zero Waste Advisory Commission meeting of May 14, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Drohan’s motion, Commissioner Suddaby’s second, on a (6-0-1) vote with Commissioners Rothrock, Commissioner Griffith, Commissioner Whaland, Commissioner Steyaert absent and Commissioner Caudle abstaining. ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a representative of one member for the Joint Sustainability Committee for the 2025 calendar year. The motion approving Commissioner Iris Suddaby’s appointment as a member for the Joint Sustainability Committee for the 2025 calendar year was approved on Commissioner 1 Drohan’s motion, Commissioner Ishaq’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioners Rothrock, Commissioner Griffith, Commissioner Whaland and Commissioner Steyaert absent. 3. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of an Organics Processing Contract for an amount not to exceed $10 million. The motion approving the recommendation to authorize negotiation and execution of an Organics Processing Contract for an amount not to exceed $10 million was approved on Commissioner Masino’s motion, Commissioner Drohan’s second, on a (7-0) vote with Commissioner Rothrock, Commissioner Griffith, Commissioner Whaland absent and Commissioner Steyaert present. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery Safety Program Presentation, by Chad Presley, Chief Administrative Officer of Austin Resource Recovery. The presentation was made 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. The presentation was made by Jason McCombs, Strategic Initiatives Division Manager of Austin Resource Recovery. 6. Staff briefing on the status …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE ZERO WASTE ADVISORY COMMISSION JULY 30, 2025 6:30 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 May 14, 2025. ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action regarding a recommendation on the FY26 Proposed and FY27 Planned Austin Resource Recovery Budget. 3. Approve a representative of one member for the Joint Sustainability Committee for the 2025 calendar year. 4. Recommend authorizing negotiation and execution of an Organics Processing Contract for an amount not to exceed $10 million. 5. Discussion and action on the Annual Internal Review of the Zero Waste Advisory Commission for July 2024 through June 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Resource Recovery FY26 Proposed and FY27 Planned Budget Presentation, by Victoria Rieger, Finance Manager of Austin Resource Recovery. 7. Staff briefing regarding Austin Resource Recovery Safety Guidelines Presentation, by Chad Presley, Chief Administrative Officer of Austin Resource Recovery 8. 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 …
