Hilary Gans

The Board of Directors meeting included several key operational and financial discussions. The Executive Director reported updates on the transition to the new financial services firm Eide Bailly, open recruitment for the Outreach and Communications Manager position, and the pending FY2026 budget approval. Staff sought approval for the FY2026 budget, which included adjustments based on soft PET revenue and the addition of a $300K project for MRF parts storage due to ongoing pest issues. Discussions also covered two capital improvement projects: the transfer station tip floor assessment and a flood assessment project at Shoreway, both potentially leading to significant future expenditures. The Board also addressed legislative work, including AB 762 banning disposable vapes, and labor negotiations with Recology. Key actions included approving the Consent Calendar items, which authorized a three-year contract for IT services and approved the Audited Financial Statements for 2024. Furthermore, the Board approved an amended agreement increasing the Executive Director's compensation by 3%. A required public hearing on vacancies and recruitment efforts was conducted. The Board also authorized the transfer of bank accounts as part of the move to the new administrative services contract. Additionally, a member was appointed to the Ad Hoc Subcommittee reviewing the annual fee paid to the City of San Carlos, and an Ad Hoc Compensation Committee was created to review agency staff salaries and titles. Operationally, the Board authorized issuing a Request for Design Build Proposals for the MRF Automation Upgrade Phase II Project, utilizing a best-value procurement process. An update on the Transfer Station Tip Floor Assessment was provided, noting the floor's uneven surface. Finally, there was an update on the SB 54 Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act rulemaking process.

The Board meeting commenced with ceremonial resolutions for the retiring TAC Chair and Recology General Manager. The Executive Director's report included updates on recognizing trash to art contest winners, an upcoming Earth Day event, and the agency's co-sponsorship of AB 762. Key items approved under the Consent Calendar included a Professional Services Agreement with New Aspect Financial for 401A Fund Management and a resolution approving the MRF Harris Baler Refurbishment. In Administration and Finance, the Board finalized 2025 committee appointments, including transferring members to a proposed Masterplan Steering Committee while putting the Zero Waste Committee on hiatus. Under Collection and Recycling Program Support, the Board approved a contract with MSW Consultants, Inc. for SB1383 compliance record keeping, following discussion regarding recourse for response times and data migration. Shoreway Operations involved approving a contract amendment with South Bayside Industries regarding the marketing of commodity materials, shifting to work primarily with one reliable partner (Waste Management via ACI) for one year. The Board also approved retaining Carson Consulting Corporation for MRF Sorter staffing due to a vendor termination, and authorized bidding for the urgent Transfer Station Tunnel Pits Edge Repair Project, with a motion to explore including all four pits in the repair scope. The meeting concluded with a presentation on the 2024 Annual Report and informational updates.

The meeting addressed legislative and regulatory updates, including a scoping meeting for 2026 Legislative Priorities. Key discussion points centered on the results of 2025 legislative work, noting successes like the signing of AB 899, AB 1201, and SB 840, while also reviewing vetoed bills (AB 823) and stalled bills (AB 80, AB 436, AB 998, SB 45, SB 14) due to cost implications. The committee established 2026 priorities, which include fighting for yearly Cap and Invest funding for SB 1383, monitoring SB 54 regulations, watching Zero Emission Vehicle policies, and continuing work on RethinkWaste's bill banning single-use vapes. Discussions also covered bioplastics, microplastics, and the implementation of AB 2440, SB 1215, and SB 54. A query regarding the destination of fines from local jurisdiction non-compliance with SB 1383 was raised for follow-up.

This document outlines strategic priorities focused on environmental regulation and waste management. Key areas include active participation in legislative and regulatory processes for battery recycling, plastic reduction, and organics diversion. The plan emphasizes advocating for funding through initiatives like the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF), managing disposable vapes and lithium-ion batteries, securing infrastructure investments, and expanding the 'Zero Waste Now' coalition to advance waste reduction and responsible recycling efforts.

The Board of Directors meeting included several informational staff reports. Agenda Item 9A provided an update on the SB 1383 Compliance Program, detailing 2025 waiver determinations, increased participation rates (91% commercial, 96% multi-family), and the commencement of standard enforcement procedures including Notices of Violations (NOVs). It also covered SB 1383 outreach efforts. Agenda Item 9B updated the Board on Public Education and Outreach Programs, including social media statistics, Shoreway Tours Program details, e-newsletter performance, and bill insert coordination for Member Agencies. Agenda Item 9C presented the 2026 Finance and Rate Setting Calendar, outlining key dates for Recology's compensation application review, budget reviews, and final rate approvals. Agenda Item 9D detailed technical consulting contracts issued between June and December 2025 for various projects, including engineering, repair, consulting services, and supply purchases.