March 2024

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit both the Stutzman Refuse Disposal in Hutchinson and the Plumb Thicket Landfill in Harper County, and it completely changed my perspective. Previously, I held the belief that recycling was primarily politically driven and inefficient. I assumed that recycling mandates would inflate the cost of trash services, likely requiring government subsidies or regulatory enforcement. However, I am pleased to admit that I was mistaken. Recycling not only stands on its own but is also undeniably profitable. Contrary to my previous assumptions, recycling is not subsidized, and it does not increase taxes or trash bills. If this fact alone isn't enough to motivate us to recycle, consider the additional benefits: it prolongs the lifespan of landfills, conserves energy and reduces the time and cost of producing future products, ultimately benefiting consumers.

In recent years, the recycling center has undergone a remarkable transformation, adopting cutting-edge technology like high-speed cameras, computers, robots and material handling machinery. This evolution has made recycling more valuable than ever. Moreover, recycling has become more convenient for consumers. Gone are the days of sorting materials or washing containers—simply place all recyclables into a single-stream recycling bin, and the process takes care of the rest.

For those hesitant to embrace recycling, I urge you to reconsider. The reasons to do so are plentiful, and I have yet to come across any compelling counterarguments. Most trash haulers now include recycling bins as part of their regular service, offering a simple yet effective way to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills. In our community alone, we send as much as 4 million pounds of trash to the landfill daily. Despite this staggering figure, recent estimates suggest that the Plumb Thicket Landfill could last another 48 years, a testament to effective waste management practices. However, increased participation in recycling could potentially extend its lifespan even further.

During my visit to the Plumb Thicket Landfill, I was impressed by the incorporation of environmental science to ensure its safety. Nevertheless, greater participation in recycling could further extend its longevity.

In 2009, the City of Derby made a controversial decision to implement citywide trash service, a move that initially met resistance from residents like myself. Accustomed to the personalized service provided by small business haulers, I doubted whether a citywide service could match up. However, over time, my perspective shifted, and I now fully support this decision.

The benefits of contracted trash service are undeniable. Competitive rates and exceptional service quality have been achieved, with dumpsters now only at the curb one day per week, creating a visually appealing neighborhood. Additionally, the consolidation of services has reduced road wear caused by heavy trucks, some of which were previously poorly maintained and leaked motor oil.

Reflecting on this journey, I recognize the importance of embracing change and adapting to new realities. While I initially clung to the idea of choosing my own trash hauler, I now understand the many benefits of a citywide service. It's not just about convenience; it's about efficiency, cost-effectiveness and environmental stewardship.

As residents of Derby, we should take pride in our city's commitment to sustainability. Let's leverage this pride into advocacy and encourage neighboring cities to follow Derby's lead and make the smart choice for their communities. The net effects of contracted trash service with recycling undoubtedly save taxpayer money, reduce costs for everyone, beautify neighborhoods and extend the life of landfills. I'm grateful to have been proven wrong.

The views expressed by Commissioner Jim Howell in this newsletter do not necessarily represent the governing body of the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners or Sedgwick County Government.

Learn about issues affecting your community!

You are invited to attend the next District 5 Citizens Advisory Board meeting on Friday, April 5, 4-6 p.m. at the Oaklawn Community Center. Sedgwick County Manager Tom Stolz will give a presentation on the county's strategic plan, and Emergency Communications Director Elora Forshee will talk about the new Emergency Communications Community Advisory Board.

Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.

• Monday, April 8, 4-5:30 p.m.
• Range 54, 5725 E. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, 67218

Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.

• Tuesday, April 16, 7-9 a.m.
• The Grill, 222 N. 2nd Ave., Mulvane, 67110

Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee provided.

• Friday, April 26, 7-9 a.m.
• Calvary Baptist Church, Gymnasium. Enter at the glass doors on east side at 1636 E. Patriot, Derby 67037

Deadline to apply for Homestead Refunds is April 15

If you are a senior, veteran, low-income or disabled homeowner, you might qualify for a significant property tax refund through the Kansas Department of Revenue's Homestead Refund program. Contact the Sedgwick County Clerk's Office for free help determining if you are eligible and filing the forms. For more information, watch the video below and visit Homestead Refunds | Sedgwick County, Kansas.

Celebrating healthy accomplishments in Sedgwick County

The Sedgwick County Health Department and its community partners are working together to improve the lives of local residents. On March 6, commissioners proclaimed 2024 as the 20th anniversary of the Health & Wellness Coalition, which provides leadership and funding for community projects. One of Sedgwick County's epidemiologists, Sonalli Kurlekar, was also named this year's Health Care Hero by the Wichita Business Journal (WBJ). Watch the video below, presented at the WBJ awards dinner, to learn more about her work and how it impacts our community.

Exploration Place breaks ground on new riverfront amphitheater

With golden shovels in hand, commissioners and other local officials ceremoniously kicked off construction of the new Wichita Foundation Amphitheater, expected to open this fall. It's part of a $22 million project to develop Exploration Place's riverfront property.

Recycling revelations uncovered during recent field trip!

Several Sedgwick County staff and community members toured Waste Connections' Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Hutchinson recently and discovered how easy recycling can be! Contrary to popular belief, greasy pizza boxes CAN be recycled, and there is no need to wash out cans and plastic food containers before dropping them into a recycling bin. Lids, even metal ones, don't need to be removed from bottles or glass jars. It's also a myth that one piece of garbage will taint an entire bin of recyclables and force it to be thrown into the landfill. High-tech robotics, using artificial intelligence, can now sort out contaminants.

Since Waste Connections handles most of Sedgwick County's recycling, the following guidelines apply to most residents with curbside recycling:

Allowed:

• glass
• aluminum
• cardboard, including pizza boxes
• plastic
• paper and newspaper
• junk mail, including slick advertisements
• shredded documents

Not allowed:

• Styrofoam, including takeout containers, coffee cups or packing peanuts
• single-use plastic bags
• pet food bags
• potato chip bags
• latex or mylar balloons
• wood
• tires
• batteries
• electronics
• organic material

If you have more questions about what can and cannot be recycled or whether your curbside recycling is processed at the Hutchinson MRF, contact Waste Connections' Customer Service at 316-838-4920 or WasteConnections.com.

The 70th Annual Wichita Crime Commission Awards Dinner honored law enforcement and citizens who prevent and fight crime.

At the Sedgwick County Association of Cities (SCAC) meeting, Emergency Communications Director Elora Forshee talked about her new Community Advisory Board.

The Annual Township Officials Meeting is a great way for Sedgwick County to connect with our community and address the questions and concerns of township residents.

Contact Commissioner Jim Howell

316-660-9300

Jim.Howell@sedgwick.gov

100 N. Broadway, Ste. 660, Wichita, KS 67202