The Municipal Services and Properties Committee of the Cleveland City Council convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss significant legislative changes aimed at improving waste management practices in the city. The primary focus of the meeting was an ordinance requiring residents to wrap mattresses and other cloth items before disposal to mitigate health risks associated with pests like bed bugs.

The proposed legislation mandates that all items made of cloth, including mattresses and sofas, must be wrapped prior to being placed on the curb for collection. This requirement aims to enhance public health and safety, particularly for city workers who handle waste. The committee discussed the potential for increased penalties for non-compliance; however, it was decided that the existing penalty structure would remain unchanged.

Council members raised concerns about public education regarding the new ordinance. The Department of Public Works plans to include information about the wrapping requirement in its biannual waste guide and annual bulk collection calendar to ensure residents are informed of the changes.

The meeting also addressed the issue of illegal dumping, particularly of mattresses, which has become a growing concern in the city. Council members inquired about the response time for cleaning up illegally dumped items and the processes in place to manage such situations. The Department of Public Works indicated that while they strive to address illegal dumping within two weeks, the timeline can vary based on the complexity of the situation.

In addition to the mattress wrapping ordinance, the committee discussed an emergency ordinance related to the handling and disposal of municipal solid waste containing radioactive materials. This legislation is necessary to amend an existing contract with the Lorain County Landfill to accommodate the additional costs associated with safely managing such waste. The committee noted that while the occurrence of radioactive materials in household waste is rare, it is essential to ensure proper disposal to protect public health and safety.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing waste management practices while prioritizing the safety of both residents and city workers. The proposed ordinances are expected to be implemented soon, with ongoing efforts to educate the public about compliance and safety measures.