Winnebago County Solid Waste outlines limits on local composting, options for bulky-waste pickup

Winnebago County Solid Waste staff described the county's transfer-station operations, recycling markets, current composting options and models other cities use for bulky-waste pickup during a June 2 Sustainability Board meeting in Oshkosh.

Kelly Ryar, who identified herself as solid waste staff with Winnebago County, said the county's solid-waste department operates as an enterprise fund, meaning programs are supported by tipping fees rather than the general tax levy. "A lot of people don't realize ... we are not on the tax levy. We are the only department that is not on the tax levy," Ryar said.

Nut graf: Ryar told the board the county does not currently have the land, equipment or staffing to run a county-scale composting operation; the transfer station accepts bulky items, appliances, e-waste year-round and household hazardous waste by appointment; and other municipalities use curbside bulky-item programs or scheduled clean-up weeks to serve residents without trucks.

Key details presented

- Transfer station and recycling flow: Residential and private hauler trucks tip at the county transfer station; County material is then…