Board of Commissioners - workshop

WELCOME AND CALL TO ORDER

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE

Background: Guilford County is updating its Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) to provide a 10-year framework for planning, coordination, and policy guidance related to solid waste collection, recycling, disposal, and supporting infrastructure. The update is voluntary and is not required by the State. Since completion of the County's prior plan in 2012, North Carolina has eliminated the requirement for local governments to update solid waste plans every three years. Given continued population growth, economic development, and changes in the County's waste stream, Guilford County initiated the update to evaluate current conditions and identify priorities for the next 10 years. The planning process included analysis of the County's waste stream and existing infrastructure, a countywide public survey with 1,292 participants, two community open houses, a municipal stakeholder meeting, and input from County staff and other community partners. The County's current solid waste system is decentralized and relies on a combination of County services, municipal operations, and private-sector providers. Guilford County directly provides licensing, enforcement and oversight for unincorporated areas of Guilford County; operates the Bishop Road drop-off facility; coordinates special collection events; and contracts for household hazardous waste services. Municipalities generally provide or contract for curbside collection within incorporated areas, while private haulers serve much of the unincorporated County through subscription-based service. The plan update identifies several trends that will influence future service needs. Total waste disposal increased approximately 35 percent between FY 2016-17 and FY 2024-25, while construction and demolition waste increased approximately 71 percent. Disposal growth has substantially exceeded population growth over the same period. The County also relies primarily on three landfills for municipal solid waste disposal, including two privately owned facilities located outside Guilford County. Existing capacity is expected to be sufficient during the 10-year planning horizon; however, continued monitoring is recommended because of potential exposure to regional demand, transportation costs, private contractual arrangements, and future facility capacity. Staff and the County's consultant, Smith Gardner, Inc., will present the findings of the planning process and receive Board feedback on the proposed goals and priorities. Following the work session, staff will incorporate Board and staff comments, complete legal and administrative review, and return the finalized Solid Waste Management Plan to the Board for formal consideration and adoption. Requested Action: Receive an update on the Solid Waste Management Plan and provide feedback to staff before finalizing the plan.

MERIDIAN WASTE LICENSE REQUEST

Background: Guilford County provides residential solid waste collection in unincorporated areas through licensed private haulers rather than a County-operated curbside collection system. The Board of Commissioners licenses residential solid waste collectors under the County's Solid Waste Ordinance. Meridian Waste North Carolina, LLC has requested approval to operate as a licensed residential solid waste collector in Guilford County. Meridian has more than 30 years of solid waste experience and currently operates in eight states, serving more than 580,000 residential customers. Guilford County currently has two licensed residential haulers serving approximately 37,700 customers. Meridian would provide an additional service option for residents in portions of the unincorporated County. As a condition of licensure, Meridian would be required to comply with applicable State and County regulations, annual inspection requirements, and the Guilford County Solid Waste Collection Customer Bill of Rights. Meridian's proposed rates are consistent with the County's existing service framework, with rates not to exceed $29.25 per month and future annual adjustments (tied to January 1 per the fee schedule) tied to the Consumer Price Index, capped at 4 percent. Requested Action: Approve Meridian Waste North Carolina LLC for a license to operate as a collector of Residential Solid Waste in Guilford County for a term beginning October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2029, with a rate not to exceed $29.25 per month, subject to rate increases January 1 of each year based on consumer price index, not to exceed a maximum cap of 4%.

DISCUSSION - FACILITY AT 4525 W. WENDOVER AVENUE, GREENSBORO

Background: The City of Greensboro is working on potential redevelopment of the former animal shelter site on West Wendover Avenue for permanent supportive housing. The property has historically been jointly owned by Guilford County, Greensboro, and High Point. In June 2026, the City of High Point conveyed its ownership interest to Guilford County. The former animal shelter was demolished in 2023. Staff from the City of Greensboro will provide a presentation for Board feedback. Requested Action: Receive the City of Greensboro's report and, if favorable, direct staff to: (1) complete the title review; (2) obtain any necessary releases or conveyances of existing covenants or reversionary interests associated with a determinable fee; and (3) prepare the necessary documents to convey 4525 and 4525-A West Wendover Avenue to the City of Greensboro, pursuant to N.C.G.S. §§ 153A-176 and 160A-274, without monetary consideration and subject to mutually agreed-upon restrictive covenants.

OTHER BUSINESS

ADJOURN