Commission approves $2.66 million Republic Waste change order for single‑stream recycling; staff emphasize education to reduce contamination

The Kalamazoo City Commission approved a supplemental change order with Republic Waste Services for single‑stream recycling services totaling $2,663,514.

At the committee of the whole staff and Solid Waste Coordinator Chris Broadbent reported roughly 15.2% contamination in the city’s recycling stream, meaning a notable portion of collected material is not recyclable and must be removed. Vice Mayor Hess and other commissioners emphasized continuing public education about acceptable materials in recycling containers and noted the city has options for items such as expanded polystyrene at designated drop‑off locations.

The commission voted to approve the supplemental contract to continue single‑stream recycling operations while education efforts continue.