Title
FY21 Agenda Adoption of Zero Waste Strategy Report and Implementation Plan (B)
Explanation
On August 15, 2019, the City Commission approved executing an interlocal agreement with Alachua County to develop a joint strategic Zero Waste Plan. By working cooperatively with common goals, the County and the City can move toward Zero Waste more efficiently.
Alachua County executed an agreement with Kessler Consulting Inc. to provide the analysis. The City paid for half of the study, which was $62,260.
The Zero Waste Strategy Report and Implementation Plan is designed to evaluate the County and City’s existing reuse and recycling infrastructure and evaluate policies and programs in the community to maximize reuse and recovery.
City and County Community Builders have identified five guiding principles for evaluating Zero Waste strategies: (1) Keep Resources Local; (2) Foster Job Growth; (3) Emphasize and Support Upstream Solutions (4) Mitigate Climate Change; and, (5) Ensure Environmental Justice and Equality of Service.
Kessler, with input from stakeholders, has developed a three-phase Implementation Plan for Zero Waste strategies. These strategies address food waste recovery, construction and demolition debris recycling, and the promotion of reuse. Because of the work of Community Builders and the Zero Waste Subcommittee, many Phase I strategies are already underway.
Strategic Connection
This item is connected to Goal 2: Sustainable Community and Goal 3: A Great Place to Live and Experience - a high priority item.
Fiscal Note
The direct fiscal impact on the policies is unclear at this time.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) hear a presentation from Kessler Consulting Inc.; 2) provide feedback; and 3) accept the Alachua County/City of Gainesville Zero Waste Strategy Report and Implementation Plan.