The California Department of Resources and Recovery (CalRecycle) requires all local jurisdictions to implement a variety of mandatory recycling programs (AB 939, AB 341, AB1826) that aligns with the overall statewide goal to divert 75 percent of waste from landfills by 2020. The new legislation has made the solid waste industry more complex, thus requiring more aggressive programs to achieve greater progress in material recovery.  In January 2017, CalRecycle mailed a letter of concern outlining improvements needed for the Mandatory Commercial Recycling and Organics program’s (AB 341/1826) education, outreach, monitoring and reporting requirements. As a result, a four year review cycle is now a two year review cycle to closely monitor improvements.

In August 2018, HF&H was contracted to assist with legislative compliance of the Mandatory Commercial Recycling and Organics Programs (AB 341/AB 1826). This included the development of hauler report formats, quarterly progress reports, monthly field meetings with the hauler, participation in CalRecycle’s bi-annual site visits and conference calls. These efforts helped contribute to the good faith effort received for dramatic improvements made with the AB 341/AB 1826 programs. Since then, the City adopted a construction and demolition waste recycling program that requires construction and material diversion requirements to divert 65 percent of project materials from the landfill. The management and coordination of these enhanced mandated recycling programs have led to the need for increased monitoring of solid waste tonnages, hauler oversight and strategic planning. HF&H’s consultant services have ensured compliance status with CalRecycle, and has gained knowledge of the contract and has established a working relationship with Republic Services. HF&H consultants also have extensive background in solid waste services and has worked with other cities on compliance issues. Therefore, staff recommends acquiring their continued legislative compliance with the mandated recycling programs (AB 939, AB 341, and AB1826), including the new construction and demolition recycling program.

The cost for the legislative compliance assistance services of the mandated recycling programs agreement with HF&H is not to exceed $50,000, funded through Refuse enterprise funds within the current FY 2019-20 City budget. There is no impact to the General Fund.

It is recommended that the Sanitary District Board:

• Award the professional services agreement to HF&H Consultants, LLC. for a fixed price amount of $50,000 until services are rendered; and

• Authorize the General Manager to execute the agreement on behalf of the District and make minor modifications as appropriate thereto.

By: A.J. Holmon III, Streets/Environmental Manager