Recycle-sorting warning: lithium-ion battery sparked early-June fire at county facility, board urged outreach

The board discussed findings from the county recycling-advisory committee, which reported items improperly placed in curbside recycling can damage equipment and create hazards. Chair noted that "there was actually a fire at the recycling facility, in early June caused by a lithium ion battery that had been put into the recycling and and caused the fire." The committee urged more public education about proper disposal and recycling rules.

Members summarized other problematic items found in recycling streams—including needles, hoses and unexpected large objects—and said these can jam equipment and present safety risks for workers. The Chair and members noted the county EcoPark accepts hazardous materials (including lithium-ion batteries) and that hazardous-waste disposal by appointment is available; members encouraged outreach through the farmers market and social media to reduce dangerous or inappropriate recycling inputs.

The board recommended promoting eco-park hours and drop-off procedures, and suggested using upcoming farmers-market outreach to educate residents about safe disposal options.