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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/07/1989 SWC MinutesMOUNT PROSPECT RECYCLING COMMISSION November 7, 1989 Meeting MInutes PRESENT: Dick Bachhuber, Elizabeth Herbert, Paul Hoefert, Joe Kubik, George Luteri, Steve Polit,,Ken Westlake, and Mary Winkler. Glen Andler and Lisa Angell, Public Works Staff Ron Otto, Mount Prospect resident Eileen Berg, student ABSENT: Brian Robertson The meeting was called to order at 7:35 PM, at which time Chairman Westlake called for approval of the October Meeting Minutes. As there was some question as to whether the Commission had formally addressed and supported the proposed transfer site for leaves and recyclables at Melas Park, the following revision was made to the minutes: The Recycling Commission unanimously supported the proposed method for the collection and disposal of grass clippings, leaves and brush. However, the proposed transfer site was only discussed rather than formally acted upon. Following this clarification the minutes were approved. The following topics were discussed under Old Business: I. Yard Material Glen Andler presented a rough draft of a memo to be presented to the'Village Board of Trustees at the November 14, Committee of the Whole Meeting. The memo outlined the Commissions recommendations for the collection and disposal of yard materials. Although the Commission supported the recommendations at the October 26 meeting a few of the Commission members had questions and concerns regarding specifics of the program. 1) Dick Bachhuber questioned the price of the bag. Mr. Andler reviewed itemized cost of the bag with the Commission. Members again gave support for the proposed cost. Further points of the . bag system were highlighted: a) Northbrook and Rolling Meadows both have successful bag systems. (Northbrook, leaves only; Rolling Meadows, garbage) b) The bags are treated for moisture and have been demonstrated to be durable under wet conditions. c) Research has proven degradability of bag occurs within a 5-6 week period. 2) George Luteri questioned various cost figures shown on the work sheets. Again, cost figures were reviewed, corrected and clarified, as needed. One factor emphasized regarding the cost of the bag was; the critical issue of the program is to discourage homeowners from bagging their grass clippings. Therefore the cost should be an incentive for non -bagging. 3) Chairman Westlake asked about landscape materials from multi -family units. Mr. Luteri stated most multi -family units contracted for landscape service. If a multi -family unit does not have landscape service and they have been utilizing dumpsters for yard material disposal they will be subject to purchasing Village bags, according to Mr. Westlake. Mr. Andler stated he would check with BFI on this issue. He also stated an ordinance would need to be adopted to prevent landscapers dumping into on- site dumpsters. 4) Mr. Andler mentioned although brush collection would be assessed for each household it is feasible a user cost similar to the grass clippings bag system could be implemented. However, for this contract the collection and disposal of brush would be a flat fee. He reassured the Commission, homeowners would be given written instructions regarding the collection of brush. 5) A few Commission members questioned whether all the work sheet attachments should be submitted to the Board. Following a brief discussion the Commission voted to leave all attachments with the proposal document. II. Transfer Site In response to the proposed transfer site the following questions were raised: 1) Dick Bachhuber stated it was his understanding Arlington Heights had requested land space at Melas. Mr. Andler responded that Arlington Heights request would probably be dropped and that Mount Prospect has a 20 year lease with the Metropolitan Wate Reclamation District for Melas Park. 2) Steve Polit questioned whether any residents in the area ever complained about leaves being dropped at the site. Mr. Andler stated there had never been any complaints made to Public Works. 3) George Luteri suggested the transfer site be used for collection of plastics. He also mentioned a new recycling center is going up on South Mt. Propsect Road and Touhy. Chairman Westlake then called for a motion to approve, for recommendation to the Board of Trustees, the proposed transfer site for leaves and recyclables. The motion was made, seconded and unanimously accepted by Commission members. Chairman Westlake will summarize the Commission's recommendations at the November 14 Committee of the Whole Meeting. Mr. Ron Otto, resident, stated he felt the Commission needed to make a stronger opening statement to the Board in support of; leaving grass clippings on the lawn and/or backyard composting. The Commission agreed with Mr. Otto and the opening statement shall be reworded as such. Steve Polit suggested having an art contest for decorating the bag but it was determined the Village logo should be used. New Business I. Education Video Karen Giet's,' Cable Administrator, resignation from the Village, will delay production of the recycling video. Since it is questionable when work on the video will resume a letter will be written to the schools explaining the situation. To encourage school involvement though, the schools will be offered recycling bins and curbside collection. II. Recycled Paper The Public Works Department and the Manager's office have ordered recycled letterhead paper and business cards. III. Recycled Products Glen Andler informed the Commission the Public Works Department purchases recycled toilet paper and paper towels. Although there were additional topics mentioned, due to the time all other recycling issues were postponed until next month's meeting. In consideration of the holidays Thursday, December 14, 7:30 PM at meeting was adjourned at 9:55 PM. Respectfully submitted, M. Lisa Angell the Commission agreed to meet the Public Works Building. The