Submitted By
Robert Sproule, Public Works Director
Reviewed By
A.M. Zayyad, Deputy Village Manager
Agenda Item Title
Title
A Resolution Approving an Independent Contractor Agreement with Simple Recycling Illinois for the Implementation of a Residential Textile Recycling Pickup Program and Authorizing its Execution
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Overview
Overview
Due to increased community interest in textile recycling has been increasing over time, staff from the Village’s Environmental Services Division researched options to implement a Residential Textile Recycling Pickup Program. The Village’s contracted residential waste hauler does not currently provide textile recycling services; therefore, an additional contractor is required to implement the program. The proposed program is similar in structure to the Village’s existing E-Waste and Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Pickup Programs and will allow residents to increase diversion of their solid waste from the landfill at no cost to the Village.
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Recommendation
Recommendation
Adopt the Resolution.
Background
The Village’s Environmental Services Manager researched available service options for textile recycling and found that there are two main program types: textile recycling drop-off bins and textile recycling pickup services. Due to concerns with fly-dumping and other nuisances at drop-off bins, the decision was made to pursue a Residential Textile Recycling Pickup Program. Simple Recycling Illinois was found to be a competent and experienced textile recycling service provider that will manage the following aspects of the program outlined in the contract: collection procedures; setout procedures; collection schedule; contamination and improper set outs; telephone and customer service; missed collections and complaints; public information and education; marketing and disposition of the recyclable materials; monthly payments and reporting; insurance; compliance with laws and regulations; and employee conduct. The collected materials will be sorted by the contractor to determine which items are suitable for resale and which will be re-spun into new textiles, reused to make rags, or be recycled into a variety of other products such as insulation or carpet padding.
Fiscal Impact
There is no cost to the Village for this program. During the 4-year term of the proposed agreement, Simple Recycling Illinois will compensate the Village $.05 per residential textile recycling pickup. Under no circumstance will the Village or its residents incur any fees or charges. Revenue will be deposited into account # 5055-43760-101-444453 (Environmental Services, Refuse Collection Fees). Based on the participation rate for the Village’s more popular E-Waste and HHW programs, an annual revenue of $25-$75 is expected from these payments. Ultimately, the goal of this program is to offer a free and effective waste diversion service to residents, rather than generate revenue.
DEI Impact
This program is available for all residents regardless of their participation in the Village’s refuse collection program. The vast majority of textiles are recyclable. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, over 14.5 million tons of textile waste is sent to landfills every year in the U.S alone. The recycling rate for textiles is much lower than other materials such as aluminum or glass due to a lack of available programs and education. Textiles that end up in landfills can lead to serious environmental health concerns. Synthetic fibers are not designed to decompose at all and can leach toxic chemicals into the soil and groundwater. Natural fibers can take years to decompose and release greenhouse gases as they do so. Implementing a Residential Textile Recycling Pickup Program in Oak Park will have positive environmental impacts by increasing solid waste diversion, raising awareness within the community, supporting regional greenhouse gas reduction, and extending the usable life of landfills in Illinois. Specifically, this program aligns with Goal ZW03 of the Climate Ready Oak Park Plan, which is to promote strategies to reduce waste and increase awareness of Village composting and recycling services to residents, schools, and other institutions.
Alternatives
The Board can delay action to gain additional information.
Previous Board Action
N/A
Citizen Advisory Commission Action
N/A
Anticipated Future Actions/Commitments
N/A
Intergovernmental Cooperation Opportunities
N/A