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Presentation and Discussion on the Outcomes of the Village Waste Characterization Study
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Introduction
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The Village initiated its first residential Waste Characterization Study in June 2025 to identify opportunities for waste reduction and improved diversion. A final Material Characterization Study and Opportunity Assessment Report was completed by SCS Engineers at the conclusion of the project with support from the Village and Lakeshore Recycling Systems. Major components of the project include an analysis of the Village’s historical solid waste data and existing programs, an audit of the Village’s residential waste streams (trash, recycling, and compost), a community waste survey, and opportunities for improvement.
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Recommended Action
There is no recommended action at this time as this is a presentation and discussion.
Prior Board Action
Th Village Board adopted a Resolution approving a professional services agreement with Sterns, Conrad and Schmidt, Consulting Engineers, Inc. for the development of a waste characterization study in an amount not to exceed $83,560 on June 10, 2025 (RES 25-220).
Background
On August 1, 2022, the Village Board adopted Climate Ready Oak Park, a comprehensive and long-range plan developed in response to the global climate crisis. This action plan includes WG01. Conduct a Waste Characterization Study as a primary step towards expanding the Village’s waste goals and database. Obtaining this specific solid waste data will result in more accurate Greenhouse Gas Inventories and better inform environmental programs, policy, and planning.
The Environmental Services Division issued an RFP on January 29, 2025, for a Waste Characterization Study, which will identify the composition of residential waste streams in Oak Park and provide staff with recommended viable strategies for meeting the waste diversion and reduction needs, goals, and priorities of the Village. The proposal from SCS Engineers was determined to be the most appropriate bid for the project based on the firm's extensive experience and pioneering methodology.
The project began in July 2025 with data analysis and program evaluation, followed by an audit of the residential waste streams (trash, recycling, and compost) in late August at the LRS material recovery facility in Maywood, IL. After reviewing the preliminary waste audit results, the Village distributed a Community Waste Survey on the Engage Oak Park platform in October that received 1,117 responses and reached a broad range of residents. SCS Engineers then compiled all information obtained from the project and provided practical insights and viable actions for the Village to consider while planning future waste reduction and diversion efforts.
This study aligns with the 2024-2025 Village Board Goal - Sustainability & Resiliency, Priority 1: Implement Climate Action Plan.
Timing Considerations
This is a presentation and discussion. There are no specific timing considerations associated with this item.
Budget Impact
This is a presentation and discussion. There is no budget impact associated with this item.
Operating Impact
This is a presentation and discussion. There is no operating impact associated with this item. The item aligns with the Public Works Department’s core service delivery.
DEI Impact
This is a presentation and discussion. There is no DEI impact associated with this item.
Community Input
The Village’s Waste Characterization Study included a 15-question Community Waste Survey that received 1,117 responses and provided valuable insights into household waste generation, recycling and composting behaviors, and perceived barriers for reducing and diverting residential waste in Oak Park. The survey was posted on the Engage Oak Park platform for approximately one month and included a financial incentive of one $10 refuse fee credit per household serviced under the residential contract with LRS. A detailed Survey Response Report is included in the Material Characterization Study and Opportunity Assessment Report as Attachment E.
Staff Recommendation
There is no recommended action at this time, as this is a presentation and discussion.
Alternatives
This is a presentation and discussion. There are no alternates to present at this time.
Anticipated Future Actions
Future items brought before the Board for consideration will reflect the study’s outcomes and recommendations, presented as proposed actions or alternatives, particularly in the areas of refuse rates, diversion, composting, and recycling.
Prepared By: Rob Sproule, Public Works Director
Reviewed By: Jack Malec, Assistant to the Village Manager
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Presentation
2. Material Characterization Study and Opportunity Assessment Report
3. Supporting Documents