Fortuna explores organics recycling options to meet SB 1383 requirements

The City Manager briefed the council on the state's SB 1383 requirements for organics recycling and the need to identify where Fortuna's organics will be processed. The manager gave examples of organics, saying they include "apple cores and chicken bones," and described two paths: join the Humboldt Waste Management Authority (HWMA) so the city's organics are processed through a regional facility, or not join and instead pay the residential processing rate.

The manager said staff and consultant Kathleen Gallagher discussed options and that Fortuna will return to the council with specific recommendations about whether to join HWMA or contract for residential processing rates. No enrollment or contract decision was made at this meeting.