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Ames staff authorized to negotiate partnership with Carroll County landfill as city plans new transfer and recycling facility
Summary
Facing the pending end of a Boone agreement, staff were authorized to negotiate with Carroll County landfill for a partnership that could include board representation, recycling backhaul, methane‑capture projects and joint diversion efforts; council also backed a planned EPA SWIFR grant application to fund facility equipment and building costs.
City staff told the council Dec. 10 that efforts to partner with Metro Waste Authority were constrained by that agency's conditions — including exclusive control over material flows, restrictions on board membership, and a requirement that Ames exhaust siting options in Story County before joining. Those limitations, combined with timing pressure from the impending end of the city's agreement with Boone County, led staff to pursue alternate partners.
John (city staff) said discussions with Carroll County's Western Iowa Commit Waste Commission showed more promise: preliminary talks suggested Ames could have a true partnership with a board seat, shared environmental goals and opportunities for backhaul of recyclables, yard waste and electronics. "We're asking tonight for authority for staff to continue negotiations with Carroll County Landfill to become a partner," John said.
Staff also said they will submit an EPA Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grant to underwrite the transfer‑station building and equipment (shredder, drum magnet, eddy current system). Staff described a phased plan: secure a partner agreement, pursue the EPA grant, identify and acquire land for a transfer and recycling facility, solicit design services, and return to council with the grant award and plans for bidding and construction.
Council emphasized climate and operational questions including methane capture, transport distances (Carroll County is roughly 70 miles away), and how consolidated hauling and biodiesel fueled vehicles could reduce emissions despite longer haul distances. Staff said Carroll County has an RFP out to establish landfill gas capture and that Ames would size its transfer facility to aggregate material and move it in large semi loads.
Council approved staff's recommended motion to authorize negotiations and continue planning, and staff said Boone County indicated it might extend the city's current contract by two years if Ames shows a plan in place — providing a bridge while new infrastructure is developed.
