Spokane Valley holds public hearing on updated Solid Waste Management Plan; consultants, staff urge targeted outreach and phased implementation

Spokane Valley — City staff and consultants presented an updated Solid Waste Management Plan during a public hearing Sept. 30, outlining data collection, revised goals and an implementation framework required under state rules and the Department of Ecology.

Deputy City Manager Eric Gland and consultants from Great West (Michelle Langdon and Addison Cofot) told council the plan was restructured to be actionable, to reflect changes in state law since the city’s 2014 plan and to include measurable implementation steps for the next five years.

Why it matters: Washington’s recent recycling and organics laws and evolving regulations require local governments to plan for expanded recycling and source‑separated organics collection. The plan is the city’s tool for meeting legal requirements while addressing affordability, reliability of service and resident education.

Key findings and data presented - Waste flows and contracts: Staff summarized the local system: curbside collection is contracted (disposal via the university transfer station), while roughly 45% of households self‑haul rather than subscribe to curbside garbage service. Total tonnage to the transfer station in 2024 was reported just under…