SF committee hears broad public support, accessibility and capacity concerns for mandatory recycling and composting ordinance

The Governmental Audit and Oversight Committee on a routine meeting considered an ordinance that would amend San Francisco’s environment, public works and health codes to require separation of recyclables, compostables and landfill trash, require participation in recycling and composting programs, provide enforcement mechanisms and penalties, ensure properties subscribe to refuse service, and authorize a Department of Public Health inspection fee of $167 per hour. The committee accepted several amendments by unanimous consent and continued the item to May 28 for fuller discussion.

Supporters who testified during the public-comment period urged the city to move forward. "I just want to say that I agree with this," said Marissa Adlard, a University of San Francisco student, arguing San Francisco should lead on mandatory recycling. Leslie Silverglide, owner…