SWA Board Meeting - 06-10-2026

The Solid Waste Authority Board meeting held on June 10, 2026, focused extensively on budgetary and procurement matters related to solid waste management operations. Key procurement discussions included the approval of a $1,411,511 transfer from unrestricted reserves to a restricted debt service reserve account to secure bondholder interests. The board reviewed and approved the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, which included a 5.9% increase in single-family residential rates and a 9.1% increase in commercial disposal assessment rates, driven largely by contractual increases in plant operations, fuel, and chemical costs. The board also discussed the upcoming procurement timeline for a new incinerator facility (REF 1R), including a request for information in August 2026, a request for qualifications in January 2027, and a request for proposals in May 2028, with contract award anticipated in February 2029. Additionally, the board considered legal services contracting strategies after unsuccessful negotiations with the existing bond counsel, opting for a split approach with Troutman Pepper Lock continuing as bond counsel and Nelson Mullins handling construction law. Public comments emphasized waste reduction strategies and environmental concerns, while board members discussed investment strategies for reserve funds to optimize returns without compromising safety. No immediate contract awards were made, but several action items and motions related to budget approval and fund transfers were unanimously passed.