In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the current state of waste management and recycling efforts, revealing a stark contrast between the volume of tires processed and general garbage collected. While nearly 2,000 tons of tires have been recycled, this figure pales in comparison to the 162,000 tons of garbage, highlighting a recycling rate of just 1%. Despite the low percentage, officials emphasized the importance of incremental improvements in recycling practices.

Commissioner Curry noted the public's perception of recycling and the demand for increased efforts in this area. The discussion underscored the need for better communication with constituents regarding the complexities and costs associated with recycling initiatives. The board agreed to allow 60 days for further discussions and one-on-one meetings to gather more information before making any decisions.

The meeting also touched on the logistics of waste management, including the proximity of Class 3 waste facilities. GFL Environmental's representative confirmed that their facility in Dade City could accommodate additional waste, with a capacity of 300 tons per day. The potential for issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to explore options for handling Class 3 waste was also discussed, with officials recognizing the need to lock in current rates for future projects.

As the meeting concluded, the board committed to revisiting the topic in 60 to 90 days, with plans for a workshop to further evaluate assessment rates and explore additional recycling opportunities. The urgency of addressing waste management challenges was clear, as officials acknowledged the growing population and increased waste generation in the area. The board aims to finalize a comprehensive plan by January, ensuring that the community's needs are met while considering long-term sustainability.