Recycling markets brighten; Needham to consider contract renewal with Cassella

At the June 2 meeting of the Town of Needham Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Advisory Committee, members were briefed on recent shifts in recycling commodity markets and the upcoming decision point on the town's recycling services contract.

Committee members said cardboard prices rose by roughly $15 per ton since December and that single‑stream and co‑mingled processing costs have declined, improving the town's processing outlook. The presenter cautioned that PET (number‑1 plastic) has weakened in U.S. markets while aluminum and HDPE (number‑2) values have strengthened; causes discussed included cheap virgin plastic imports and processing plant closures.

The committee noted that the current recycling contract with Cassella Recycling is listed to end on August 26, and members discussed procurement strategy. Cassella has been the town's partner since 2016; past procurement included an RFI that drew interest but not always competitive bids. Committee members described typical municipal contract structures (three‑year base terms with extensions that can extend total length up to five years) and said staff will consult with administration on next steps.

Related announcements at the meeting included a paper‑shredding event at the Recycling and Transfer Station on June 13 (10 a.m.–2 p.m.), submission of an RDP grant application and a home‑composter revolving fund with a balance reported as over $3,000 to support discounted sales.

No formal contract decisions were made at the meeting; members agreed to continue procurement conversations with administration and finance.