2013-09-25 Minutes Environmental Management Commission

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Complete the loan process Begin design Go out to bid Execute construction contract F. Kealakehe Aeration Upgrade and Sludge Removal - Construction bid is being finalized. - Construction could begin in 2014. G. Kealakehe WWTP Effluent R-1 Upgrade - This project could be impacted by Federal designation of critical habitat in the area. - Siting a new wastewater treatment plant is prohibitive because of the closeness of the airport and location of suitable land. - The County will attempt to include this project with the State Department of Transportation Queen K Highway project. Ulu Wini Affordable Housing—DEM/Wastewater is meeting with OHCD and appropriate parties to discuss WWD taking over operation of this treatment plant. WWD is currently reviewing the federal and state requirements to ensure the plant meets all mandates. The department has concerns with this additional workload because the division is understaffed. The department will be meeting with DHHL and the Mayor regarding delinquent sewer payments for DHHL residents. I. Sewer Rate Study Update - Commissioner Lim suggested that a power cost adjustment be included in the sewer rates. - Inclusion of this adjustment will require amending the County Code and approval by the County Council. Solid Waste Division 1. OPERATIONS • Scrap Metal &Appliance Recycling - Bid has been awarded and Notice to Proceed has been issued for the contractor to receive scrap metal delivered by the county from county collection sites. - Deputy Director Medeiros is monitoring this contract as well as other Solid Waste contracts. Commissioner Randle requested the annual cost of operating the Sort Station. The Director indicated that to effectively separate recyclables, sorting- specific equipment is needed. The Director indicated a need to increase the solid waste fees because the cost/ton paid by the counties to the State continues to increase significantly. Language should be added to the Solid Waste Division Rules and County Code to allow the department to pass on the State fee increases. • Commission Member District Reports—includes information obtained from meetings with council members and district residents since the last commission meeting. District 2—Commissioner Randle met with Council Chair Yoshimoto who reiterated his request to be kept informed of the department's activities. 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Presentation on the Composting Process (handout attached to original minutes). County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.