Longmont City Council could see an ordinance as soon as May 25 that would require universal recycling and composting in the next few years.
Longmont has a goal of reaching 75% waste diversion by 2030 and 95% by 2050. A universal recycling ordinance is a big piece to reaching that goal, but some fiscal impacts on businesses are still unknown.
As proposed, recycling service would be required for commercial properties over 10,000 square feet and multifamily properties with more than 75 units in January 2024, and all commercial and multifamily properties by June 2024. Organics collection would be required for food wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers and grocery stores in January 2024, other business types in June 2025 and landscaping companies in January 2029.
In December, council asked staff to return with additional information on the financial impact this ordinance would have on businesses. Brian McGuill, utility rate analysis manager for the city, explained that it was difficult to collect much data on the issue, as he was only able to get information on recycling cost, pickup frequency and receptacle size from only nine businesses.
He was also able to obtain some information from haulers in the area, but there is a wide range of rates for recycling receptacles.
McGuill noted that the implementation of the Universal Recycling Ordinance will include resources to assist businesses in complying with the requirements, including the hiring of a sustainability coordinator focused on Zero Waste implementation. The program would also offer one-time grant funding, financial assistance for a specific period and exemptions based on various barriers.
Council instructed staff to stay the course, but Mayor Pro Tem Aren Rodriguez did bring up some concerns over composting requirements. A1 Organics, the area’s only compost facility, stopped accepting items like paper towels, compostable cups, paper products and compostable utensils this month.
Councilmember Marcia Martin noted that there may need to be some flexibility in the timeline, but that is not a failure or reason to stop. Councilmember Tim Waters also voiced his concern over implementing an ordinance without knowing how much of a burden it may be for businesses.
The ordinance is expected to come to the city council next month.
