Montgomery County updates solid waste management plan to enhance recycling efforts

During the recent Riverside City Council meeting, significant discussions centered around the Montgomery County Environmental Services' solid waste management plan update, a regulatory requirement mandated by the Ohio EPA every five years. John Beneer, Assistant Director of Montgomery County Environmental Services, presented key highlights of the plan, which aims to reduce reliance on landfills and enhance waste reduction and recycling efforts.

Beneer emphasized the importance of the plan, which not only addresses waste reduction but also ensures a 20-year disposal capacity for all waste generators in Montgomery County. He reported that the county's recycling rate has improved from 23.4% to 25.4%, thanks to better data collection and reporting from local waste processors. This increase is crucial as it meets one of the primary goals set forth in the solid waste management plan.

The meeting also addressed the financial aspects of the plan. To sustain waste management programs, the financial advisory committee recommended increasing the solid waste generation fee from $3 to $3.65 per ton. This change translates to an additional cost of approximately 65 cents per year for the average household, allowing residents to plan their expenses more effectively. The plan includes a proposed annual increase of 6% to keep pace with rising costs, ensuring that the county can continue to fund essential waste management services.

Additionally, the council discussed ongoing litter issues in Montgomery County. To combat this problem, the county has implemented a new rule requiring that all loads of construction waste entering transfer stations be tarped. This initiative aims to reduce litter and improve community cleanliness, supported by educational outreach efforts.

As the council prepares to endorse the solid waste management plan in the upcoming meeting, these discussions highlight the county's commitment to sustainable waste practices and the direct impact on Riverside residents. The plan not only addresses immediate waste management needs but also sets a framework for future environmental stewardship in the community.