CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Board members of the Kanawha County Solid Waste Authority approved a five year recycling plan Tuesday that would give the authority a road map of where they would like to be with their expenses, revenue, new facility plans and their expected market share.
James Young, the authority executive director, said they want this to be a gradual path that leaves room for growth.
“We really want to build to what we can afford now and then have the ability to expand over time in phases,” said Young.
Currently, Young said the recycling commodity prices are very low. He said it’s a “down time” for the industry that he hopes will eventually lead to better days.
“We’re hoping in that period we can get more customers and provide more efficient services for people and really expand it,” he said.
SWA wants to build a new recycling center at the spot where the former Slack Street building stood. Demolition of the building began this month and is expected to be completed by the end of the week.
Before the new facility can be built, the authority wants to make sure they are clear of any environmental issues. Young said there will be soil testing of the ground before any design or construction can take place.
Young said the plan will be submitted to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection for review. The authority is also seeking funds through the state, so they can receive help for equipment and parts for the new building.