2010 2013 thurston county solid waste advisory committee · 2010 – 2013 thurston county solid...

2010 – 2013

Thurston County

Solid Waste Advisory

Committee Action Roles

November 2010

Page | i

2010-2013 SWAC ACTION ROLES

SWAC Members:

Ed Hildreth

Jason Hearn

George L. Barner, Jr.

Delroy Cox

Diana Wall-Specht

Dan Daniels

Burt Guttman

Sarah Segall

Sandra Romero

Tracey Wood

Staff:

Scott Schimelfenig

Terri Thomas

Ruth Pierce

Project Consultants:

John Kliem & Deborah Holden, Creative Community Solutions, Inc.

www.ccsolympia.com

http://www.ccsolympia.com/

Page | 1 CREATIVE COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS, INC.

Introduction

The Thurston County Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) met four times from May

through October 2010 to define their role as a solid waste advisory body to the Board of

County Commissioners. At these workshops, SWAC members:

Examined the state law establishing solid waste committees

Reviewed the 2010 County Commissioner Goals for Thurston County

Identified ten distinct roles for the SWAC and divided them into three tiers

Developed work plans to accomplish each role

The work products generated by SWAC members at these workshops follow among the

pages within this booklet. For each role identified, there is a summary explanation of the

role, a list of specific tasks to accomplish, a notation as to who will mentor the tasks for the

SWAC, and a place to make notes. It will be the responsibility of the Mentor to assume

leadership in organizing and moving their assigned role forward.

SWAC members should consult the booklet at their monthly meetings to “check in” with

their fellow members regarding progress at moving forward with accomplishing their roles.


Fulfilling our SWAC Role

Recommend, Review & Represent Interests of our Communities on

Solid Waste Programs

Work Intra-jurisdictionally to

Coordinate

Tier 1

Our Outreach Activities

Keeping up with Research &

Development

Prevention

Tier 2

Forging Cultural Partnerships

Review & Recommend Ideas for

School Involvement

Marketing what we want

People to Buy Into

Recommending Political Action Tier 3

Thurston County Solid

Waste Advisory Committee

Roles

The SWAC divided their roles into

three tiers to show which ones

they needed to accomplish first.

Tier 1 roles lead the way, followed

by Tier 2 and Tier 3 roles.

…Page 3

…

…Page 5

…Page 6

…Page 7

…Page 8

…Page 9

…Page 10

…Page 11

…Page 12

Appendix A & B are handouts distributed at

the May 2010 Workshop. These follow on

pages13 -18.


TIER 1ROLE:

FULFILLING OUR SWAC ROLE

SWAC members would like to learn more about their SWAC roles by visiting other places and

talking to other people.

SPECIFIC ITEMS TO ACCOMPLISH:

Identify trips, identify what we want to get out of trips, invite speakers to come

beforehand

Roosevelt Regional Landfill

Silver Springs Organics

Rabanco Recycling Center

Research other facilities, groups

Prioritize trips

Schedule visits

Be aware of emerging issues

SCHEDULE: Start June 2010

MENTOR: SANDRA ROMERO

NOTES:

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TIER 1 ROLE:

RECOMMEND, REVIEW, AND REPRESENT INTERESTS OF

COMMUNITIES ON SOLID WASTE PROGRAM

SWAC members would like to focus on becoming effective communicators about the Solid

Waste Management Plan to enhance their ability to integrate community and interest group

views into the planning process. This long-term process begins with SWAC members

familiarizing themselves with the plan.


Each month, a SWAC member will give an overview presentation to the group about a topic

within the SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN. A group discussion will follow about the topic. In

preparing for this activity:

Diana Wall-Specht will work with county staff to identify topics within the plan and develop a general format for members to use as a flexible guide.

At the September meeting, the topics will be on a wall sheet in order of presentation. Each topic will have a corresponding number in a hat or bag and SWAC members will draw for topics.

SWAC members are encouraged to read the sections in the plan and talk to staff or other individuals in advance in preparation for their presentation.

SWAC members will work with county staff to identify topics within the plan to focus on and will develop a general format for members to use as a flexible guide.

SCHEDULE: September 2010

MENTOR: DIANA WALL-SPECHT

NOTES:

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TIER 1 ROLE:

WORK INTRA-JURISDICTIONALLY TO COORDINATE

SWAC members will to work within their respective communities or interest groups to

integrate and coordinate the goals and actions of the SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN to

ensure consistency with solid waste management on a countywide basis.

This role is about dialog – each member will serve as a “go between” to carry the

conversation back and forth.


The SWAC decided that the first step is to develop a strategic work plan specific to this role –

a “how to” approach for each SWAC member to follow. Some of the potential topics to

discuss in this plan are:

Identifying program costs

Agreeing on consistent recycle approaches (e.g., bin color)

Developing presentation formats for updating respective communities and groups

Helping smaller jurisdictions in the county with presentations

Aiding others in understanding the impacts of programs in place

Creating informational brochures and flyers on issues, programs

SCHEDULE:

MENTOR: ED HILDRETH

NOTES:

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TIER 2 ROLE:

OUR OUTREACH ACTIVITIES

SWAC members want to educate consumers, participate in community outreach, and

volunteer at county events.


Staff will make SWAC members aware about available volunteer opportunities

Staff will help SWAC members craft an appropriate message to deliver at events that complements more “technical” presentations

SWAC members will have the option to attend the February Master Recycler Class; staff will make a “mini-version” available to the SWAC as a whole

The SWAC will be a contact point to outreach to and collaborate with organizations, church groups, dog parks, youth groups, scouting groups, Thurston County Round Table, etc.

Coordinate a Green Construction Education Program booth or trailer

Solid waste reduction competitions

SCHEDULE: Review progress at monthly meetings

MENTORS: GEORGE BARNER, DIANA WALL-SPECHT, STAFF

NOTES:

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TIER 2 ROLE:

KEEPING UP WITH RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

SWAC members would like to work with the County to encourage new and innovative

technologies.


The SWAC will focus on sharing information, keeping up-to-date on new resources and

technologies, and working with local institutions of higher learning.

Dan Daniels and Delroy Cox will forward news items from WRRA, WSRA, and WORT that address SWAC interests

Burt Guttman will put together a Microbial 101 Teaching Session, including a potential field trip to the Chehalis Tribe to look at their program

Diana Sprecht Wall and Terri Thomas will make written materials available

George Barner will explore the potential for holding a symposium with other partners (colleges, Commerce, Thurston County Climate Change) that focuses on research and development in solid waste management

SCHEDULE: Review progress at monthly meetings

MENTOR: The group will monitor this role at each monthly check

NOTES:

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TIER 2 ROLE:

PREVENTION

SWAC members would like to work on keeping garbage out of the waste stream before it’s

collected, focusing on areas such as less packaging, buying in bulk, using own bags &

containers, and sending out a clear message.


The group will send out a clear message about why it’s important to reduce waste.

Terri Thomas will provide a Product Stewardship 101 presentation to the SWAC

SWAC members will explore the question as to whether it should form a subcommittee to develop a “Clear Message” about prevention for the community

SCHEDULE: August 2010

MENTOR: TERRI THOMAS

NOTES:

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TIER 3 ROLE:

RECOMMENDING POLITICAL ACTION

SWAC members will develop a political action role that entails recommending involvement

in legislative initiatives, such as promoting package reduction.


Working with staff, the SWAC can choose to focus on:

Tracking and supporting certain bills before the legislature

Resolutions on special actions before city councils and other

Working with publications to take positions or notify them of issues through editorial boards and guest columns after first consulting with SWAC and staff. (The SWAC will inform staff about contacts / publications.)

SCHEDULE: Starts November 2010

MENTORS: BURT GUTTMAN; GEORGE BARNER

NOTES:

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TIER 3 ROLE:

MARKETING, WHAT WE WANT PEOPLE TO BUY INTO - “GOALS”

SWAC members want the community to remember and subscribe to the goals within the

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN that focus on reuse, recycle, and reduce. Developing a

marketing program around these goals will be important.


Staff will work with a marketing consultant to develop a clear message for waste reduction. The SWAC can volunteer to be on a review panel which could include: reviewing the scope before sending, meet with potential candidates for their presentation of ideas, and review what the chosen consultant provides before production.

Research how other communities are getting the message out about zero waste

SWAC members will do some internet research of national branding / mascot

SCHEDULE: 2011 Work Plan

MENTOR: TERRI THOMAS, STAFF

NOTES:

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TIER 3 ROLE:

FORGING CULTURAL PARTNERSHIPS

SWAC members will explore ways to forge cultural partnerships through waste reduction.

The SWAC will reach out to the art community in particular to find help carry solid waste

goals before the public.


Feature artists who work with reclaimed materials in “Talking Trash”

Incorporate art made from re-used materials at transit center, fairgrounds, Auto Mall etc., partner with Arts Walk (Apr., Sept.)

Enlist the help of the Arts Commission

Pursue grant opportunities through the Port of Olympia to support the use of “recycled” art in community

Give an award to artists who work with recycled materials, (i.e., MATTER

www.matteroly.com)

SCHEDULE: Starts November 2010

MENTORS: SARAH SEGALL; SANDRA ROMERO

NOTES:

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http://www.matteroly.com/


TIER 3 ROLE:

REVIEW AND RECOMMEND IDEAS FOR SCHOOL INVOLVEMENT

SWAC members would like to work with school districts to promote waste reduction

awareness among children and youth.


Continue to explore opportunities to include waste reduction in educational curricula

Explore the possibility of inviting non-voting youth members on the SWAC

Encourage Yelm & North Thurston school districts to participate in county solid waste programs

SCHEDULE: 2011 Work Plan

MENTOR: ED HILDRETH

NOTES:

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Appendix A

From the Planning Guidelines

ADMINISTRATION

The SWAC “in a nutshell”

The local SWAC is mandated by Chapter RCW 70.95.165.

Every local SWAC must consist of at least nine members

that represent a balance of interests including, but not

limited to: citizens, public interest groups, business, the

waste management industry, and local elected public

officials.

The SWAC is an advisory body only and should not be

responsible for the implementation of solid waste

policy. The SWAC should only develop

recommendations and provide informed advice that

may become policy by will of government officials, such

as an executive or legislative body of the planning jurisdiction. Final public policy decisions

should not be left to a local SWAC. Furthermore, it is important to note that the SWAC is an

on-going committee. Regular meetings should be held to discuss issues that arise within the

solid waste system, even when a plan revision is not in process. A good strategy is to have

less frequent meetings when not revising the plan, but still continue to meet to make

recommendations and review the plan for consistency on a quarterly or annual basis. It is

essential to the cyclic planning process – including implementation of the plan – to hold

regular local SWAC meetings as described earlier in these guidelines.

Ecology’s regional solid waste planners may regularly attend SWAC meetings and are

available to provide technical assistance and educate SWAC at the request of the

jurisdiction. Local government staff should provide administrative support to the SWAC,

and keep the SWAC informed on local solid waste issues and activities.

Some Advice for Operating a Local SWAC

Every jurisdiction will have a different situation in regards to the relationships between

SWAC, the local solid waste staff, and the governing body; but there are several elements of

a functional SWAC that are universal and will contribute to the overall effectiveness of the

local SWAC.

Stakeholders to consider for

SWAC:

local business

solid waste haulers

recycling industry

county commissioners

agricultural industry

concerned citizens

local military installations

tribal representatives

city government officials

chamber of commerce

non-profits

building industry

…and any other parties with

an interest in solid waste

management.

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=70.95.165


Develop a charter or set of bylaws and procedures and abide by them. A clear

direction and level playing field will contribute to fair and effective meetings.

Ensure that every SWAC member is given the opportunity to learn about the

operation of the local solid waste system and the waste management industry, in

general. Provide facility tours and other education as necessary for new members.

Develop an adequate solid waste management plan (SWMP) and use it as a guide.

Referring to the SWMP will ensure a clear direction and assist the SWAC in providing

recommendations and advice to government officials that are consistent with the

goals and policies of the solid waste system.

Ensure that the SWAC has a good balance of community representation and reflects

the interest of the local citizens and businesses. Actively seek public participation

and input at SWAC meetings.

Work collaboratively with city and county elected officials. Establish an

understanding of mutual goals and objectives and keep communication lines open.

Invite elected officials to the local SWAC and appoint someone on the committee to

appear before the legislative body when necessary.

Develop and maintain relationships with other SWACs. Share ideas and experiences.

If the opportunity arises, attend other SWACs and tour facilities in other jurisdictions.

Annually re-examine committee work. Establish an annual work plan and dedicate

one meeting every year to evaluate the committee’s progress, completion of tasks,

and day-to-day operations.

Activities to educate the local SWAC may be eligible for financial assistance through Ecology.

Planning jurisdiction staff should contact an Ecology regional grant officer to determine

eligibility and refer to the Financial Assistance section of these guidelines (Chapter IX).

NOTE: RCW 70.95.040 mandates that a State Solid Waste Advisory Committee (state SWAC) be

created. This is an on-going statewide committee whose function is to provide consultation

to Ecology on solid waste issues. The state SWAC advises Ecology on the development of

programs and regulations for solid and dangerous waste handling, resource recovery, and

recycling, and provides recommendations to Ecology on how existing laws and practices

may be supplemented and improved. The state SWAC does not directly interact with local

planning efforts; however, a representative of the local SWAC or local solid waste staff are

encouraged to seek information for participation on the state SWAC. The state SWAC

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=70.95.040


roster, meeting schedule, agendas, and meeting minutes can be found on the state SWAC

website: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa/swac/.

SWAC ROLES

The SWAC in the Planning Process

While developing the local solid waste management plan (SWMP) the SWAC should be

asked to make recommendations. The planning jurisdiction should provide the SWAC with

an overall status report of previous plan recommendations and a current status report of

the existing infrastructure and general operation of the solid waste system. The SWAC may

use this information to develop a series of alternatives that can eventually be proposed as

the preferred recommendations in the final plan. Although the SWAC will generally be

tasked with developing these recommendations, all final decisions on plan implementation

will be determined by the appropriate responsible official(s) within the planning jurisdiction.

In order for a jurisdiction to qualify for financial assistance for planning purposes from

Ecology, evidence of SWAC participation in plan development must be provided when the

planning jurisdiction submits the preliminary draft to Ecology for a formal review. This can

be satisfied with a signed statement from SWAC members, copies of meeting minutes, or

other means agreed upon by the jurisdiction and an Ecology solid waste planner.

Implementation

The Local SWAC’s Role

The local SWAC essentially serves as the progress monitor. The local SWAC should continue

to meet regularly throughout the five years between plan reviews and ensure that programs

are being implemented as described in the plan. The SWAC should make regular

recommendations to the legislative body or other responsible official(s) regarding the

implementation of programs that were recommended in the plan. However, SWAC

members should always keep in mind that the local SWAC is an advisory body and does not

create policy. The planning jurisdiction is not statutorily bound to implementing all of the

programs in the plan; but the SWAC can be useful in prioritizing the programs that should be

addressed.

The Planning Jurisdiction’s Role

The planning jurisdiction is responsible for implementing the programs designated in the

plan as “recommended actions” and for the general operation of the solid waste system. In

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa/swac/


some cases, activities described in the plan are delegated to participating jurisdictions, but

the planning jurisdiction should remain up-to-date on the status of all plan implementation.

The planning jurisdiction should monitor performance toward goals and objectives, evaluate

program success, and adjust program efforts as necessary.

The Jurisdictional Health Department’s Role

The JHD is responsible for implementing the surveillance and control element of the solid

waste plan. The JHD should conduct regular facility inspections; review and issue permits,

variances, deferrals, exemptions; respond to complaints; and issue citations for the

mismanagement of solid waste. In addition, the JHD shall issue permits in accordance with

the adopted local solid waste plan and ensure that all facilities are consistent with the

adopted solid waste plan. In some jurisdictions, the JHD is also tasked with some

educational efforts in the community, such as business outreach programs like EnviroStars.

Participating Jurisdictions’ Role

Participating cities are responsible for the collection of solid waste, and perhaps recycling

and waste reduction programs, within the city limits. Cities generally will collect solid waste

via a city utility service or will contract a private hauler to collect solid waste. Some planning

jurisdictions are now delegating pollution prevention, waste reduction, and other

educational efforts to the cities, as well.

Maintaining the Plan

Five years can seem like a lifetime in the world of solid waste. New facilities, changes in

service levels, fluctuating commodity prices, annexations, and drastic changes in waste

generation and population can have a significant impact on the solid waste system. The

planning jurisdiction and SWAC should regularly revisit the plan to ensure that the current

status of the system is adequately outlined in the plan. On occasion, the plan will need to be

adjusted to account for various changes – sometimes before the five-year review is due.

This chapter provides guidance for keeping the plan current and consistent with the status

of the local solid waste system.


Appendix B

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