Committee approves package of public‑works waste, recycling and salt contracts; discusses tire recycling

The Finance, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee approved a group of public‑works ordinances on May 11 covering recycling grants and contracts, solid waste transfer and disposal, bridge maintenance and rock salt procurement.

Ordinance 521‑2026 authorizes the city to apply for a grant from the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District to support recycling education, cart placement and consultant work; staff said the district will help analyze opt‑in rates across roughly 559,000 addresses. The committee amended the ordinance to require the director of public works to provide written notice to the clerk when purchases are made under the grant and approved the item.

Ordinance 471‑2026 authorizes requirement contracts for transfer and processing of recycled materials (two‑year term with options to renew). The director described the program’s growth and noted rebates averaging $19.92 per ton in 2025.

Ordinance 470‑2026 covers transfer/disposal contracts for solid waste; discussion included bid‑bond language intended to increase leverage with contractors and clarifications about what materials the transfer station accepts (municipal solid waste, not construction debris). Committee members raised concerns about dumped tires and private tire‑shop disposal practices; staff said the city intends to purchase a tire shredder and develop business processes to recycle tires.

Ordinance 468‑2026 is the annual purchase authorization for rock salt (via statewide cooperative bid); the city placed a 75,000‑ton order and the director said the current price is $63.99 per ton. Staff said 16,000 tons remain in inventory and the city pays invoices only upon delivery; the committee approved the salt procurement and related contracts.

Ordinance 467‑2026 authorizes maintenance and lubrication contracts for six movable bridges; staff said the program reduces bridge downtime and estimated annual spending at about $250,000. All items were approved as amended or presented.