The Solid Waste Advisory Committee invites the public to continue its review of the update of the county’s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan. This plan covers all aspects of waste management on the island, including waste reduction, education, recycling, composting, collection, transfer and disposal.

There are many pressing issues to decide, including:

* What should we do to move toward zero waste, and at what cost?
* Should we institute a “pay-as-you-throw” system to provide incentive to keep waste out of county landfill?
* Should recycling and composting be mandatory for residents and businesses? Whatwould it cost and how could it be implemented?
* Should the county require a waste reduction plan prior to issuing building and demolition permits?
* Should we keep the county transfer system of move toward curbside collection or both?
* What should we do when the South Hilo landfill is full?

This is the second round in a series of three sets of meetings reporting on the progress made to date.

CH2M Hilo, the professional engineering firm serving as consultants to the committee, will present a progress report and ask for input on the following specific topics:

* Public education and outreach
* Source reduction
* Recycling and composting
* Collection and transfer
* Residuals management

The meeting schedule is as follows:

KONA: 5-7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 15, Kona Outdoor Circle, 76-6280 Kuakini Highway

HILO: 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 17, Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street

WAIMEA: 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 18, Waimea Community Center, 65-1260 Kawaihae Road

For further information, call Mike Dworsky, Solid Waste Division Chief, at 961-8515.