2018-06-27 Meeting Minutes (EMC)

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Director Kucharski said EMC review would cause his six-month procurement process to become an eight-month procurement process. Also, procurement is not public until it is issued for everyone to see at the same time. What he could do is when they have a contract, he can bring the education component—once it’s released for review and advice—to the EMC for their edification, so that EMC comments could be utilized when DEM is reviewing the proposals that come in. Commissioner Osborne wanted to make sure DEM’s budget was not tapped but that the community gets uplifted in education the way it needs to be. She said the EMC could trust in the director’s discretion, as he has the same intent they do. DEM won’t be successful with a ten-year organics contract unless the community has the proper educational support. She believes they’re on the same page and should leave it broad and to the director’s discretion. Chair Bennett asked whether there would be sufficient guidance down the road a few years, when there is a different director, and whether they will be relying on good faith. Commissioner Pequeño suggested that the percentage or weight of the education component could be part of the selection process. When a contract goes out for bid, language could be included stating that, when the selection is being done, the education component would have a weight on par with other components such as the proposed expense, demonstrated ability, and background history in accomplishing these types of projects. Commissioner Osborne said that was a great idea, and Director Kucharski said making it explicit rather than implicit is an appropriate tool, in his opinion. It becomes one of the grading criteria, and he thinks it is a great idea. Discussion was held on whether the motion should go forward now or whether more time was needed to wordsmith it. Ms. Wong said this is what she has down for the amended motion: Any contracts entered into by DEM contain an education and outreach component for waste reduction. Director Kucharski asked for clarification on whether the education component was to be for all contracts or for waste reduction and recycling contracts, and the response was that it was just to be for waste reduction and recycling contracts. Commissioner Gaffney asked Director Kucharski if he envisioned getting the contract process started between now and the next EMC meeting, or whether the EMC should wait a month or so. Director Kucharski said he was not aware of any recycling contracts going out this month, except for possibly an automobile disposal contract. A month would not hurt, but if he should see a contract caught in the middle, he will ensure the component is in it.