Columbia County partners with Circular Action Alliance for recycling funding plan

The Columbia County Board of County Commissioners held a meeting on February 19, 2025, focusing on key updates regarding local recycling initiatives and infrastructure improvements. The meeting included discussions on the ongoing implementation of the Recycling Modernization Act (RMA), which aims to enhance recycling services across the county.

One significant topic was the introduction of extended producer responsibility, which mandates that producers of recyclable materials, such as plastics and paper products, are accountable for their recycling. This initiative is expected to simplify recycling for residents, expand access to services, and improve sorting facilities. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has designated the Circular Action Alliance as the producer responsibility organization to oversee this process.

Commissioners discussed the need for local government funding authorizations to support these recycling efforts. Solid Waste Coordinator Jake Anderson presented three options for funding authorization for local haulers: full authorization, partial authorization, or no authorization. The commissioners expressed a preference for granting full authorization to haulers for transportation, contamination evaluation, and recycling service expansion, while retaining partial authorization for contamination reduction programs that the county could manage directly.

The meeting also addressed the potential administrative burdens associated with managing these funds. By allowing haulers to handle most of the funding directly, the county aims to streamline operations and reduce complexity. The commissioners acknowledged that this program would be reviewed annually, allowing for adjustments based on evolving needs and circumstances.

Overall, the discussions highlighted Columbia County's commitment to improving recycling infrastructure and services, ensuring that both residents and producers contribute to a more sustainable waste management system. The next steps will involve finalizing funding authorizations and implementing the necessary changes to enhance recycling capabilities in the county.