Council approves consent calendar; Vision Recycling to supply "Wonder Mulch" and pump track supporters praise progress

The Livermore City Council unanimously approved its consent calendar on Feb. 23, including a procurement for colored mulch the city refers to as "Wonder Mulch." Tom Del Conte, founder of Vision Recycling in Livermore, addressed the council in support of the contract and invited council members and staff to an Earth Day facility tour on April 22.

During consent-item discussion, staff member Judy Erlinson said Livermore's diversion rate was approximately 68% as of 2024 and explained that the city currently stockpiles purchased mulch and uses it at the Livermore Airport for weed abatement. Staff said compost hubs receive purchased compost and that, when partners have space and need, the city could ask community partners if they would like mulch as well.

Mike Ralph, who said he has been involved with the pump track project since its inception, thanked city staff and partners for construction progress and a compromise on parking that allowed the project to move forward. The council took a single motion to approve the consent calendar; Councilmember Barrientos moved, Councilmember Dunbar seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.

The contract awards and operational details for mulch procurement are recorded in the consent-item documentation available from the city clerk.