Solid waste board says spring tire-recycling events cost county little after IDEM grant; reimbursement pending

Vermillion County officials told the Solid Waste Board that two spring cleanup events, including tire recycling, were successful and that the county will submit a reimbursement claim to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) for a $3,500 waste-tire grant.

Eric, the Vermillion County solid waste director, said county staff prepared an infographic summarizing turnout and expenditures and that volunteers provided labor valued using IDEM’s labor-cost guidelines. Eric said he is waiting for two checks to clear before submitting the reimbursement claim and that the grant will cover event costs, meaning the events “really didn't cost us anything” after reimbursement.

Board members discussed turnout figures and some operational details: officials said 114 county residents participated in tire drop-offs, and the county recorded approximately $18,560 in claims (payments) covering multiple items including tire-recycling expenses and spring cleanup costs. The board also reported using some advertising (including radio ads) and signage, and that those expenses will be reimbursed through the grant process.

IDEM approved the county for the same waste-tire grant amount for 2026, and the board said it plans to run the program again next year. The board will finalize the reimbursement paperwork once the outstanding checks clear and submit the claim to IDEM.

Board members acknowledged volunteers’ contributions and the role of sponsors and partners in covering event costs. No formal action was required; staff will proceed with filing the reimbursement claim once bank items have cleared.