2018-09-26 Meeting Minutes (EMC)

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funded. Additional money is always needed. He feels it is a worthy endeavor to emphasize that education is important and needed as a component in a bid. Commissioner Pequeño asked Commissioner Fritz if including examples of education outreach in the Director’s Report would be sufficient, and Commissioner Fritz said it would be after the fact and that it cannot be that there is not enough money. If people aren’t taught to recycle, how will it be done? “Shall” or “might” don’t have any strength. Director Kucharski suggested that when it is time for the Council to evaluate DEM’s budget, Commissioner Fritz speak up to them. Chair Bennett asked Commissioner Pequeño if adding a 10-point category to this evaluation would satisfy him, and Commissioner Pequeño said adding a 10-point minimum with the opportunity to increase as appropriate would. Commissioner Fritz wanted clarification that it would be labeled as education. Director Kucharski said his understanding is that a separate category in the evaluation criteria of recycling contracts will have a section that covers the outreach program and education program of the contract by the contractor. Commissioner Neff commented that education is such an important factor, as it ultimately is what makes the shift and the change, not the points, money, and who is getting the project. Chair Bennett said there is an amended motion on the floor, with a second and discussion. He asked Commissioner Pequeño to restate the motion for the purpose of clarity. Commissioner Pequeño: “Whereas the Department of Environmental Management enters into contracts for source reduction, recycling, composting, and other similar services, the department shall include a mandatory consideration of education and outreach components weighted at a minimum of 10% of all criteria in the selection and awarding process.” Chair Bennett called for a vote. Vote: All commissioners voted aye. Chair Bennett told Director Kucharski that the EMC understands everything they do is advisory in nature, but in the spirit that it’s offered, he hopes the advice rings true for generations to come. Director Kucharski said his comment is that yes, he has heard and yes, they can move this forward. The Commission recognized the efforts of former Commissioner Susie Osborne to advance education and outreach at the Department of Environmental Management.