The Mt. Vernon Green Waste Facility (Facility) currently has one shredder to process green waste and food waste materials. Shredders are very large machines that shred green waste and food waste that helps convert this material into nutrient rich material compost, mulch, and soils. Shredders also play a vital role in optimizing production. Currently, the shredder handles all the curbside green waste and commercial food waste recycling for Bakersfield and most of Kern County. Due to large inbound volume of green waste and food waste, and equipment repairs to the Facility's grinder, production has been delayed causing a backlog of materials.

It is necessary to continue renting a Type 6 Shredder to process the daily flow of green waste and food waste until the backlog of recycled materials is reduced. Stockpiled material runs the risk of fire if the 450 tons of daily incoming green waste and commercial food waste are not timely processed for composting. Pursuant to Bakersfield Municipal Code section 3.20.060 (D)(4), the proposed resolution deems the equipment to be of urgent necessity for the preservation of life, health, or property.

Staff recommends approving the Amendment to continue renting the Type 6 Shredder from Quinn Company.

Funding for this rental will be from the Refuse Enterprise Fund. Approximately 65% of the cost will be reimbursed by Kern County under the Green Waste Agreement. There is no cost impact to the General Fund.