Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Recycling And Waste topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Staff outlines county recycling grant results, proposes 2026 projects and eco fair programming
Summary
Oakdale staff reported on 2025 recycling-grant activities and proposed priorities for the 2026 Washington County grant (up to four projects): education/outreach, expanding recycling access in existing parks, and reuse-focused eco fair elements such as a clothing swap. Staff said the city usually receives about $50,000 and typically allocates roughly 25% for capital or promotion.
City staff provided the EMC with an update on the Washington County recycling grant and possible projects to include in Oakdale's 2026 application.
Hannah Dunn said 2025 activities included social-media communications, a food-scraps pickup presence at the eco fair, a pumpkin-recycling drop-off, new dual-stream bins installed at two recently opened parks (Willowbrook Fields and Prairie Trails Park), and a fall citywide collection event. "The city usually receives around $50,000 in funds with roughly 25% or 15,000 going to capital expenses or promotion efforts," Dunn said.
Staff noted only four project slots are available on the application and said applicants can bundle related activities under one project category. Commissioners suggested potential projects such as adding dual-stream bins to Walton Park, piloting reuse-focused activities (a clothing swap at the eco fair and later expanding to sports-equipment or puzzle swaps), and considering rain-barrel outreach or exploration in future applications, though eligibility for rain-barrel programs is uncertain.
On cleanups, staff clarified the grant can be used toward disposal costs for items that are recycled or reused (mattresses, electronics are commonly eligible), but that some cleanup costs fall outside allowable uses and may require additional council direction or budget. Commissioners asked about past collection weights and volumes; staff said specific weight figures were not immediately available and would require additional analysis.
