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County presents draft solid waste management plan; compost facility expansion and curbside organics discussed
Summary
Public Works staff presented a 10-year solid waste management and recycling plan required by Maryland law, outlining potential expansion of composting and curbside food-scrap collection and emphasizing education, capital improvements and modest fiscal impact.
Mark DeLuca and Department of Public Works staff presented Council Resolution 143-2025, the draft Howard County Solid Waste Management and Recycling Plan, a 10-year plan required under Maryland law.
DeLuca told the council the plan consolidates prior plan amendments, responds to state requirements such as special-event recycling, and calls for expanded service delivery, capital improvements and broader education and outreach. The county may pursue expansion of the compost facility and continue the curbside ‘green‑bin’ program for food scraps, he said.
DeLuca noted the plan was reviewed and recommended by the county’s Public Works Board and the Planning Board. He said projected costs are captured in county operating and capital budgets over the 10-year period and described the plan’s fiscal impact as nominal because the county budgets for anticipated investments.
Members of the council and public asked about pay-as-you-throw programs and different fee mechanisms used by neighboring jurisdictions. DPW staff said several central Maryland counties operate fee-based systems with charges for trash/recycling and additional services; Carroll County uses a tip fee model and mixes approaches. Commenters expressed interest in stronger incentives to reduce landfill waste and increase organics diversion.
No final vote was taken at the hearing; the plan will be considered by the council in a subsequent meeting.
