Solid Waste: At the Corvallis City Council work session on Feb. 23, the council will be looking over two different franchise agreements, one previously reported by The Advocate is for the leaf collection program and the second is the renewal of the trash collection franchise.
Both of the franchise agreements are with Republic Services. The current solid waste agreement was adopted in 2013 for a 10-year exclusive franchise agreement and is up for renegotiations.
The current solid waste management agreement for services within city limits is an exchange for 5% of gross sales to customers within the service area. In July 2015, the City Council adopted Ordinance 2015-13, modifying the agreed upon franchise terms relating to glass collection, but maintaining the original ten-year term, according to Kris Kelly, Internal Services Division Manager.
“Currently, the city receives $567,000 annually in General Fund revenues from this franchise. The agreement is set to expire Dec. 31, 2023. Negotiation topics will primarily include provisions relating to fees and services offered. Service modifications could include items like food waste collection at multi-family and commercial facilities, and additional fees may be considered to support the transition of the collection fleet from compressed natural gas (CNG) to electric,” said Kelly. “Staff anticipates franchise renewal discussions with Republic Services to begin this spring with adoption of a new franchise by Dec.”
Both franchise agreements will be up for discussion at the work session on Feb. 23. Click here for attendance and meeting materials.
Green Grants Program: It’s the final countdown to submit your application for a one-time Green Grant through the City of Corvallis. In early February the city announced they would be accepting applications for cash grants to go towards projects focused on climate change mitigation and adaptation.
In a release from the city, the program will make available $15,000 in small cash grants to fund projects aimed at combatting climate change. The grant program encourages applicants to focus on one of the community strategies in the Corvallis Climate Action Plan.
“I am very excited to see what the community proposes for these Green Grants,” said Councilor Charlyn Ellis. “It’s an excellent chance for the community to work with the city to implement our Climate Action Plan.”
The city started accepting applications on Feb. 8 and will continue through Feb. 28, with grant funding expected to be distributed a few months later. Those interested in applying can do so by visiting www.corvallisoregon.gov/greengrants.
By: Jennifer Williams
