Sustainability Integration Board Meeting September 23, 2026

The City of Wichita Sustainability Integration Board met on September 23, 2026. Staff reported that a consultant had been selected after an RFP process to support work funded by a $200,000 EPA/KDHE community resiliency grant. The scope includes a cost-benefit analysis, community engagement, a public-facing progress dashboard, and an updated greenhouse-gas emissions inventory; the grant supports planning and analysis, not implementation of resiliency projects. Work is expected to begin soon, with deliverables anticipated over the coming year and the emissions update expected in early 2027. Staff also noted that a separate KDHE solid-waste grant is being explored for a composting pilot, potentially at the Worm N’ Library, and that tree-program funds remain available, with about 10 applications received. No contract amount beyond the grant, consultant name, or board vote was reported.

Members discussed whether Wichita should move from its open-market waste-hauling system toward a more coordinated, zone-based collection approach, citing potential reductions in emissions and truck traffic, expanded recycling and organics options, and more equitable costs. The board considered examples from other cities and the need to communicate benefits and address resident concerns, but made no formal decision or spending commitment. Other discussion included the availability of public waste-survey data and a follow-up to explore how the board’s wind-energy infographic and sustainability information could be made more visible online. No procurement action or vote was taken on these matters.