Waste task force reports tire collection, compost pilots and NextCycle participation; city exploring a recycle supercenter

The committee’s waste task force updated members on ongoing programs including a large tire collection, composting pilots, electronics recycling events and the city’s acceptance into the NextCycle partnership program.

Why it matters: the city is testing new service models that could change how residents access reuse and recycling services and could require new funding or facilities.

The task‑force representative reported the group collected about 1,600 tires during recent events and is piloting neighborhood and event compost collection; interns are collecting waste‑diversion data at farmer’s markets and community events to inform future proposals. The representative said the city was accepted into NextCycle and that staff (including a deputy director and a manager) will attend a NextCycle boot camp in Dearborn; the expectation is a proposal in the fall that will include funding options.

One concept under consideration is a central "recycle supercenter" where residents could drop off multiple categories year‑round instead of waiting for quarterly special events. The task force also announced an electronics recycling event scheduled for July 26 at the Mayor’s Riverfront Park area (times to be confirmed) and said document shredding will be included in that event.

No formal action was taken; the task force will continue work with staff on a fall proposal to present to the committee and the city commission.