TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution to apply for grant funds through the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle), authorizing submittal of applications for all CalRecycle grants for which the City of Long Beach is eligible, effective for the next five years from the date of adoption of the resolution. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Public Resources Code sections 40000 et seq. authorize CalRecycle, formerly known as the California Waste Management Board, to administer various grant programs in furtherance of the state of California's efforts to reduce, recycle and reuse solid waste generated in California thereby preserving landfill capacity and protecting public health, safety, and the environment.
The CalRecycle annual grant opportunities that the City is eligible for include funding to assist with establishing beverage container recycling and litter abatement projects, developing programs to expand or initially implement hazardous household waste collection education and source reduction, assistance with solid waste facilities and inspection programs, solid waste disposal and site cleanups, tire recycling, cleanup and enforcement, and assistance to encourage appropriate disposal and recycling of used oil.
The City of Long Beach has illustrated a history of leadership of successful waste diversion programs, and the City strives to find additional ways to provide expanded recycling opportunities to underserved areas. Within the past five funding cycles, the City of Long Beach has applied for eight CalRecycle grants and been awarded a total of $1,055,709 for projects. The City currently has one application under review for a Beverage Container Recycling Grant Program and, if awarded, will grant $96,730 in funds for the installation of 17 Big Belly Solar-powered trash compactors.
The attached Resolution authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to apply for all CalRecycle grants for which the City of Long Beach is eligible effective for the next five years from the date of adoption of the Resolution.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Linda Vu on July 31, 2013 and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on July 31, 2013.
SUSTAINABILITY
Long Beach's Sustainable City Action Plan, which was approved by the City Council on February 2, 2010, includes a goal to reduce the average pounds of solid waste generated per person per day.
Leveraging these grant funding opportunities will assist the City to reduce consumption and waste by implementing programs to facilitate waste reduction, encourage reuse of resources, and provide recycling opportunities for residents and businesses within Long Beach.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on August 13, 2013 in order to provide the Resolution necessary to be considered for future grants.
FISCAL IMPACT
When new CalRecycle grants are awarded, City Council approval will be requested to appropriate the new grant funding. There is no fiscal impact or local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LONG BEACH AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR ALL CALRECYCLE GRANTS FOR WHICH THE CITY OF LONG BEACH IS ELIGIBLE
Respectfully Submitted,
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER