Austin Resource Recovery’s Proposed Rule Change Rejected by Zero Waste Advisory Commission

Austin, TX –

The Zero Waste Advisory Commission strongly rejected a proposed update to change how Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) is run at its recent meeting. The proposed changes aimed to streamline the process of modifying administrative rules within ARR by making the process compliant with the city charter. Instead of obtaining approval from the city manager, like other city departments, ARR has had to acquire approval from both the Zero Waste Advisory Commission and the City Council for changes that affect their day-to-day operations.

Concerns Over the Proposed Update

Members of the commission expressed concerns that the change would shift power from the commission to the city manager. “It seems like a significant power shift from this commission,” said Commissioner Cathy Gattuso. The Zero Waste Advisory Commission voted 7-1 to reject the changes. Commissioner Melissa Rothrock was the lone voice in favor of the proposed update.

The commissioners cited a lack of information and an accelerated timeline as reasons for their discomfort. “From my perspective, I’m being asked to make a significant decision on a tight schedule without adequate knowledge,” Commissioner Amanda Masino stated.

Richard McHale Advocates for Changes

Richard McHale, Director of Austin Resource Recovery, explained his intentions of changing a time-consuming, opaque process that has been a source of contention among ARR staff. He stated that the new process would provide more opportunities for community input due to a 31-day public comment period for proposed rule changes.

Opposition to the Proposed Changes

Several stakeholders voiced strong opposition against the changes. Chair Gerard Acuna praised the current system’s merits, highlighting its contributions over the past decade. “A lot of the programs that we have today would not have probably been implemented if it was not for the work of this commission,” Acuna said.

Adam Gregory, vice president and officer at Texas Disposal Systems, expressed concerns that the changes would lessen the Zero Waste Advisory Commission’s role in holding the staff accountable. Gregory also stated that the new process would not reduce administrative workload on staff. “It will do no such thing. In fact, it will do the opposite,” said Gregory.

What’s To Come

The proposed changes have garnered a significant amount of discussion, leading some, like Council Member Mackenzie Kelly, to suggest a delay in the voting to allow for more public feedback. The issue is set to be discussed at the upcoming City Council meeting on Thursday.