TITLE
Title
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE
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SPONSOR
Sponsor
Leslie Bell, Planning and Development
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BACKGROUND
Background
Guilford County is updating its Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) to provide a 10-year framework for planning, coordination, and policy guidance related to solid waste collection, recycling, disposal, and supporting infrastructure. The update is voluntary and is not required by the State. Since completion of the County’s prior plan in 2012, North Carolina has eliminated the requirement for local governments to update solid waste plans every three years. Given continued population growth, economic development, and changes in the County’s waste stream, Guilford County initiated the update to evaluate current conditions and identify priorities for the next 10 years.
The planning process included analysis of the County’s waste stream and existing infrastructure, a countywide public survey with 1,292 participants, two community open houses, a municipal stakeholder meeting, and input from County staff and other community partners.
The County’s current solid waste system is decentralized and relies on a combination of County services, municipal operations, and private-sector providers. Guilford County directly provides licensing, enforcement and oversight for unincorporated areas of Guilford County; operates the Bishop Road drop-off facility; coordinates special collection events; and contracts for household hazardous waste services. Municipalities generally provide or contract for curbside collection within incorporated areas, while private haulers serve much of the unincorporated County through subscription-based service.
The plan update identifies several trends that will influence future service needs. Total waste disposal increased approximately 35 percent between FY 2016-17 and FY 2024-25, while construction and demolition waste increased approximately 71 percent. Disposal growth has substantially exceeded population growth over the same period. The County also relies primarily on three landfills for municipal solid waste disposal, including two privately owned facilities located outside Guilford County. Existing capacity is expected to be sufficient during the 10-year planning horizon; however, continued monitoring is recommended because of potential exposure to regional demand, transportation costs, private contractual arrangements, and future facility capacity.
Staff and the County’s consultant, Smith Gardner, Inc., will present the findings of the planning process and receive Board feedback on the proposed goals and priorities. Following the work session, staff will incorporate Board and staff comments, complete legal and administrative review, and return the finalized Solid Waste Management Plan to the Board for formal consideration and adoption.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Requested Action
Receive an update on the Solid Waste Management Plan and provide feedback to staff before finalizing the plan.
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