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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 and Authorizing its Execution
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Introduction
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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 the firm's extensive experience and pioneering methodology.
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Recommended Action
Adopt the Resolution.
Prior Board Action
The Board has taken the following prior action(s):
• The Village Board approved funding for the program as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget on December 3, 2024 (ORD 24-189).
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.
This study aligns with the 2024-2025 Village Board Goal - Sustainability & Resiliency, Priority 1: Implement Climate Action Plan.
Timing Considerations
Adoption at this time will allow for the project to advance on a suitable timeline.
Budget Impact
There are sufficient unencumbered funds available in the Environmental Services Enterprise Fund - General Contractuals account (5055.43760.101.530660) to cover this proposed expense of $83,560.
Staffing Impact
There is no staffing impact associated with this item. The item aligns with the department’s core service delivery.
DEI Impact
This proposed agreement includes a stakeholder engagement task, which could uncover potential DEI themes, barriers, and opportunities for improving refuse services for vulnerable populations.
Community Input
The Environmental Services Manager has ongoing engagement with the Environment and Energy Commission on community waste reduction initiatives, and they are supportive of the Village conducting a Waste Characterization Study.
Staff Recommendation
Adopt the Resolution.
Advantages:
• This proposed agreement will result in improved solid waste management systems across the community.
• This proposed agreement will generate more accurate solid waste data and Greenhouse Gas Inventories, better informing the Village’s environmental policy decision-making and planning.
Disadvantages:
• There are no disadvantages associated with this recommendation.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
The Board can table the item for additional information or discussion.
Advantages:
• This proposed agreement will result in improved solid waste management systems across the community.
• This proposed agreement will generate more accurate solid waste data and Greenhouse Gas Inventories, better informing the Village’s environmental policy decision-making and planning.
Disadvantages:
• There are no disadvantages to this alternative.
Alternative 2:
The Board can vote down the item.
Advantages:
• There are no advantages to this alternative.
Disadvantages:
• There will be less knowledge and understanding of the Village’s residential solid waste streams.
• The Village’s solid waste management practices, programs, and policies will not be evaluated or improved.
Anticipated Future Actions
Staff will return to the Board at a future meeting to presenting the findings and recommendation of the study.
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. Resolution
2. Professional Support Agreement
3. Agreement Support Documents