The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD) is updating its district waste management plan and will host its first focus group meeting from 2 to 4 p.m. on Nov. 19 at Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC), 4 Industrial Drive, St. James, Mo.
The district is requesting input from the general public, industry experts and stakeholders. Presentations on significant waste streams will be provided and the group will discuss the unique needs of rural waste management with emphasis on reduction and reuse and current legislation.
A second focus group meeting will be held Dec. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the MRPC office.
The district’s goal is create an updated plan that will serve as a viable roadmap to assure healthy and prosperous communities throughout the region.
For more information contact Jill Hollowell at jhollowell@meramecregion.org or by telephone at (573) 265-2993. To keep up with the latest MRPC news and events, visit the MRPC website at www.meramecregion.org or onFacebook at www.facebook.com/meramecregion.
The ORSWMD serves seven counties, including Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski, Washington counties and their respective cities with populations of 500 or more. District funding comes from tipping fees levied at Missouri’s permitted solid waste management facilities. These funds support public services for disposal of household hazardous waste at the Rolla Recycling Center and the St. Robert Transfer Station; special collections throughout the district for tires, electronics and appliances; illegal dump prevention and clean ups; technical assistance; environmental education; and solid waste grants for the region. MRPC staff handles ORSWMD day-to-day administration and implements district programs.
Formed in 1969, MRPC is a voluntary council of governments serving Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties and their respective cities. A professional staff of 24, directed by the MRPC board, offers technical assistance and services, such as grant preparation and administration, housing assistance, transportation planning, environmental planning, ordinance codification, business loans and other services to member communities.