Tompkins County passes resolutions supporting deconstruction and grants Finger Lakes Reuse funds

The Tompkins County Planning, Energy, and Environmental Quality Committee convened on June 9, 2025, to discuss significant resolutions aimed at enhancing sustainability and waste management practices in the community. The meeting began with introductions from the Department of Recycling and Materials Management, represented by Kat and Leo, who outlined the agenda, which included two key resolutions and a leachate report.

The first resolution addressed the support for deconstruction and building materials reuse. Veronica moved to put the resolution on the floor, which was seconded by Rich. Kat provided an overview, explaining that the resolution aims to promote the practice of deconstruction—dismantling buildings piece by piece for material reuse—aligning with the county's solid waste management plan. This initiative seeks to divert materials from landfills and expand local reuse services. Kat noted that only two other communities in New York State, Auburn and Dryden, have passed similar resolutions, positioning Tompkins County as a potential leader in this area.

Rich raised concerns about the need for changes to building codes to facilitate deconstruction, suggesting that builders committed to this practice should receive expedited permissions. Kat acknowledged ongoing discussions at the state level regarding reuse and circular economy initiatives, indicating that there is growing attention to these issues.

The committee unanimously approved the resolution, emphasizing its role in raising awareness and building momentum for deconstruction practices within the community.

The second resolution focused on awarding a grant to Finger Lakes Reuse, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community reuse services. Veronica moved to adopt this resolution, which was seconded by Greg. Kat explained that this three-year contract aims to enhance reuse services, including infrastructure improvements for material intake and redistribution. The initiative also seeks to revitalize the community's reuse trail, which had been inactive, and promote educational outreach about reuse practices.

The committee recognized the importance of these resolutions in advancing local sustainability efforts and agreed to continue discussions on how to further support these initiatives. The meeting concluded with a commitment to follow up on the progress of these resolutions and their impact on the community's waste management strategies.