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Services Authority finishes successful first year in the solid waste business
The Region 2000 Services Authority began operations on July 1, 2008 to coordinate regional solid waste disposal in an effort to reduce costs for the five localities who participate. According to Solid Waste Director Clarke Gibson, the outcome of regionalizing solid waste disposal at the onset of an economic downturn has been challenging yet positive, in that the Authority has been financially and operationally successful during its first full year.
"Just like other industries, the landfill business has been affected by the downturn in the economy," he explained. While actual tons received in fiscal year 2009 were 16 percent below projections, he said the Services Authority staff worked hard to control expenses and were able to keep the expenses at 17 percent below budget. Clarke said the actual cost of disposal in 2009 was $22.62 per ton versus a projected cost of $22.53. "One positive outcome from this is that no tipping fee increases were implemented for fiscal year 2010 and we're glad to continue low cost solid waste disposal for Authority members," he added.
Consumer recycling strongly emphasized
The chart here shows the tonnage of revenue generating waste received in 2009. At the same time, staff is emphasizing consumer recycling as a way to decrease the amount of residential waste that ends up at the landfill, thus prolonging its limited life. Soon, the Services Authority will begin long range planning by analyzing future solid waste disposal options and recycling programs to ensure that Region 2000 has long term solutions for solid waste management.
If your business or civic group is interested in the Services Authority giving a talk/demonstration on the benefits of recycling, please contact Clarke at 434-455-6086.