FY2022

LANDFILL OPERATIONS The Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center (Landfill) is committed to providing environmentally and fiscally responsible solid waste, composting, and recycling facilities while working towards significantly reducing the regional reliance on solid waste disposal. The Landfill will operate in accordance with the rules and regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Iowa City Landfill and Recycling Center is administered by Resource Management staff within the Public Works Department. The Landfill serves Johnson County, Kalona, and Riverside. Solid waste is disposed according to federal and state regulations to make sure that environmental protection is in place. The Landfill has been designated an Environmental Management System (EMS) by the Iowa DNR; this status allows for independent goal setting and tracking as well as access to dedicated funds. The Iowa Waste Reduction and Recycling Act was legislated in 1989 and banned several items from Iowa landfills, including yard waste, tires, lead acid batteries, appliances, and oil. This legislation initiated recycling programs for these items, which are still in place today. In addition, City Council has banned corrugated cardboard, televisions, and computer screens from the Landfill; these items must now be recycled. Landfill Administration Resource Management oversees division policies, procedures, budget, and manages Landfill Operations and Refuse Operations personnel. Landfill Administration coordinates Landfill Operations activities with other City departments and divisions. Landfill Operations Annually, the Landfill takes in about 130,000 tons of solid waste and collects hundreds of groundwater samples to evaluate environmental compliance. The landfill is about 425 acres in size, about half which is closed or active landfill cells. The remaining land is used as a buffer for surrounding properties and wetlands. The Eastside Recycling Center is located at 2401 Scott Boulevard SE. Facilities include a LEED platinum-certified environmental education building, a bulk water station, drop- off areas for waste oil and recycling, and sales of Iowa City Community Compost and wood chips. The site also provides space for the Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity, ReStore and the Friends of Historic Preservation’s Salvage Barn. Through a partnership with ReStore, electronics are accepted for recycling. In an effort to meet the State of Iowa's waste reduction goals, Iowa City has implemented waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting programs. These programs are designed to promote higher and better use of materials and natural resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Landfill’s budget is organized into the following five activities:

449