Ridgway sustainability board finalizes work plan items, debates reusable-cup approach

The Ridgway Sustainability Advisory Board finalized the list of projects it will recommend to the town council and spent substantial time weighing options for event serviceware, including reusable aluminum cups, silicone cups and single‑use items.

Committee members said the strategic‑plan descriptions were edited for clarity and will be sent to the town council when it considers the fiscal‑year 2026 budget. "Those descriptions match what we have in the annual strategic plan," one member said as the group prepared to send the draft to council before the budget vote.

The members debated whether to buy durable commemorative cups or use low‑cost aluminum cups. One member argued aluminum is more practical, saying silicone cups foam badly when filled from a tap and do not keep drinks as cold, while another noted she had found vendors and contract language used by other towns requiring compostable or reusable products. "Pam said vendors have to sign an agreement," a committee member said, describing conversations with staff and vendors about obligating vendors to use required cups.

Members also noted practical constraints: some venue operators had refused cup refilling in the past even after state guidance permitted refilling, and attendees frequently bring outside food, which means the town will need recycling as well as composting receptacles to reduce contamination.

The board agreed not to finalize all commodity choices immediately. Instead, members asked to collect more price and procurement options and to revisit the detailed recommendations in January. The group also directed a member to gather price quotes for possible printed commemorative cups and to follow the town procurement rules for any purchase.

The board approved the November 11 meeting minutes by voice vote before closing.