Committee advances $229,123 CalRecycle grant to expand used motor oil recycling

The Budget & Finance Subcommittee advanced a resolution allowing the Department of the Environment to accept and expend a $229,123 grant from the California Department of Resources, Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to expand used motor oil and filter recycling and household hazardous waste management.

Mr. Rodriguez of the Department of the Environment described the program’s objectives as providing easy, convenient and free used-oil and filter recycling primarily for do-it-yourself vehicle owners and shade-tree mechanics and reducing abandoned filters and used oil on city streets. Cynthia Knowles described outreach plans to focus funds in District 10 and to recruit certified collection centers in high-DIY neighborhoods (named in the record). She said the department plans public events, recruitment of additional sites and partnerships with neighboring counties and that 33 collection centers currently operate in San Francisco, including three waterfront sites and the permanent household hazardous waste facility at Recology Tunnel Road.

Supervisor Obloes asked about the "3,000-mile myth" campaign; staff explained the state campaign 'Check Your Number' encourages owners to follow manufacturer-recommended oil-change intervals rather than a universal 3,000-mile rule. The committee opened public comment (no substantive speakers) and moved the resolution forward with a recommendation; the transcript records the motion proceeded without opposition.

The resolution will return to the full Board for consideration on the stated agenda date. The Department of the Environment will implement outreach in specified neighborhoods and on the waterfront to increase convenient recycling access under the grant.