Staff proposes code changes to construction debris diversion; $495/ton unsorted‑load fee retained

Elizabeth Richardson, construction debris coordinator with engineering, presented Ordinance 14 (Series of 2026) at the public hearing and walked council through staff recommendations and answers to questions raised at first reading. Staff proposes removing the diversion compliance deposit and exempting roof replacement projects from the chapter while keeping the program’s 2,000‑square‑foot applicability threshold for major projects. Richardson emphasized that the city program is based on the county program but includes several city‑specific enforcement tools.

Richardson said the city charges an unsorted‑load fee of $495 per ton, which staff tied to a social cost‑of‑carbon calculation, and that the city retains enforcement authorities the county does not, including stop‑work orders and on‑site inspections through project phases. She said the city is not recommending a 1:1 alignment with the county because the city’s threshold and enforcement aims focus on larger projects and stronger compliance tools.

Why it matters: The ordinance affects contractors and property owners undertaking large renovation or demolition projects, clarifies applicability thresholds and fees, and strengthens the city’s ability to enforce diversion standards.

Next steps: The item is at public hearing for second reading; council will consider staff responses and any public testimony before taking final action.