The Beaufort County Solid Waste & Recycling Board convened on January 31, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding waste management and recycling practices in the region. A significant focus of the meeting was the analysis of waste disposal data, particularly comparing the amounts received at convenience centers versus curbside collections.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that curbside waste collection primarily consists of municipal solid waste, which includes household trash. In contrast, convenience centers receive a larger volume of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, as well as yard waste. The increase in yard waste was attributed to recent storm events that generated more debris.

A notable point of discussion was the challenge of ensuring that only residential waste is disposed of at convenience centers. Contractors are prohibited from using these facilities, and a decal program has been implemented to help identify and deter unauthorized commercial use. Despite these efforts, board members acknowledged ongoing issues with contractors attempting to access the centers, complicating enforcement efforts.

The board also discussed the reporting process for curbside waste, noting that timely submissions from waste haulers are crucial for accurate data collection. Some discrepancies in reported figures were mentioned, particularly concerning the Town of Bluffton, where reports were still pending.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of waste management in Beaufort County, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with disposal regulations. The board plans to reconvene in March to further evaluate these issues and assess the effectiveness of current strategies.