Commission discusses expanding Christmas-light collection to include batteries and e-waste

Staff reviewed past Christmas-light recycling and the commission discussed adding batteries or other small electronic waste to that collection. Vice Chair Lisa Hendrickson emphasized using participation metrics and weighing diverted material: "I think because we have good participation that we would look to expand, what we're able to collect because people go out of their way to make that extra trip to go and recycle." Commissioners discussed whether batteries and e-waste should be collected in the same bin or in separate bins to enable accurate measurement.

Several members recommended starting with batteries as a low-barrier addition and tracking pounds diverted as an impact metric. The group considered staffing a booth at events such as Beautifest or Buda Halloween to raise awareness and to collect items. There was no formal motion; staff said they would explore logistics and options.