From October 2019 to November 2020, Metro engaged with stakeholders to assess support for a potential new recycling and transfer center. Staff also asked what types of services or amenities should be included and what concerns people had about the project.
The project team hosted more than 30 presentations to local government staff and elected bodies, public forums, industry and private businesses. Metro also conducted an online survey that reached over 800 people and facilitated seven meetings of a community advisory group made up of residents of Cornelius, Forest Grove and Hillsboro.
Community advisory group
Metro, in partnership with Centro Cultural, formed a community advisory group to learn about and give feedback on the potential new transfer center. The group represented diverse perspectives of those who would be affected and potential new customers.
Participants learned about the overall garbage and recycling system, shared their thoughts about the proposed location at North Fourth Avenue and Holladay Street in Cornelius, and learned how to engage with their local and regional government to impact decision-making.
Meeting summaries
Meeting 1, Aug. 11, 2020: Community agreements, garbage and recycling system, and proposed meeting topics.
Meeting materials
Meeting 2, Aug. 25, 2020: “Recycling or Not” activity, Metro west project vision and overview.
Meeting materials
Meeting 3, Sept. 22, 2020: Project overview continued: reducing common nuisances, Environmental Justice introduction.
Meeting materials
Meeting 4, Oct. 6, 2020: Environmental justice history, Environmental justice case studies, community application of environmental justice principles.
Meeting materials
Meeting 5, Oct. 20, 2020: Community enhancement grants, community profile.
Meeting materials
Meeting 6, Nov. 17, 2020: Community advisory group survey results, community input.
Meeting materials
Meeting 7, Dec. 15, 2020: Training on how to testify.
Meeting materials