Fairfield commission forms education committee to support food‑waste pilot

The Fairfield Solid Waste and Recycling Commission voted March 9 to form a three‑person community education committee to develop outreach and education for a planned food‑waste pilot, and staff outlined next steps for container procurement and vendor selection.

Chair introduced a plan to order two Metro store climate‑controlled, 65‑gallon totes for a pilot at Brookside Drive if the budget is approved. "We plan to order the first two of these Metro store containers," the chair said, adding staff will decide graphics and issue an RFP for a hauler to pick up food waste once or twice weekly.

Why it matters: the committee and pilot aim to expand food‑waste diversion and reduce contamination in recycling. Members emphasized that public education is essential: volunteers and local groups can staff event tables, and private haulers can supply printed materials and training.

Representatives of haulers offered operational support. Adam, of All American Waste, told the commission his company can add service to existing routes and provide printed materials and classes: "We'll be more than happy to provide printed educational material along with, having even a class on it as well." Another participant, Nick from USA/All American Waste, introduced himself during public comment and reiterated hauler support for the food‑scrap effort.

The commission moved and approved a three‑person committee, with members to be finalized before the next meeting. Commissioners discussed outreach tactics — school distribution, postcard mailings, event tabling, working with civic groups such as Sustainable Fairfield and local churches — and noted that partnering with events that have budgets for trash service can help fund composting at large gatherings.

Next steps: staff said, if the budget and RFP proceed, the town will order containers, include education terms in the hauler RFP, and run an initial trial. The committee will coordinate outreach and recommend specific event and school partners to target for early education efforts.