Staff recommend Recology for Renton’s next solid waste contract, citing outreach and stronger performance protections

Mira Hubach, the city’s solid waste program manager, told the Committee of the Whole that staff recommend contracting with Recology to provide Renton’s solid waste services beginning in 2027, saying the company scored highest in a competitive evaluation and offers stronger outreach and enforceable performance provisions.

Hubach said the city received five responsive proposals after publishing an RFP in June and that Recology received the top score — 91.9 out of 100 — after a process that included proposal reviews, 11 site visits, 13 reference checks and interviews. “Recology scored the highest with 91.9 out of a 100 points,” she said, and staff negotiated a subsequent reduction in Recology’s proposed annual prices during contracting discussions.

Why it matters: Hubach said a new contract is an opportunity to align service with the state’s recently passed organics management law and Renton’s near‑final zero‑waste plan. She told council the law aims to reduce landfill methane and standardize cart colors, and that the next contractor will be relied on to help commercial customers begin required food‑waste separation.

Staff also detailed problems under the current 10‑year…