Residents of Parkland will soon see improvements in waste management and recycling services following a recent city commission meeting held on August 13, 2025. The meeting featured a presentation from Barbara Herrera, the Government Affairs Manager with Waste Management (WM), who provided updates on safety measures and upcoming enhancements to the city's recycling capabilities.

One of the key highlights was the emphasis on preventing trash fires, which can be caused by improper disposal of hot coals and hazardous materials like lithium batteries. Herrera urged residents to dispose of such items at designated household hazardous waste sites to ensure safety and prevent costly incidents.

In addition to safety, Herrera announced the construction of a new WM Recycling facility in Broward County, set to open in early 2025. This state-of-the-art facility will significantly increase recycling capacity, processing up to 60 tons of material per hour and aiming to capture 95% of recyclable materials. This development is expected to be a game changer for the community, enhancing recycling efforts and promoting environmental stewardship.

The meeting also addressed concerns from residents regarding the durability of new recycling bins and the process for replacing damaged ones. Herrera reassured attendees that broken bins would be replaced at no cost and encouraged residents to report any issues directly to WM for prompt resolution.

Furthermore, discussions included the possibility of larger recycling bins for residents who require them, as well as the option to purchase additional garbage bins. The commission emphasized the importance of educating the community about proper recycling practices, especially with the new facility on the horizon.

As Parkland moves forward with these initiatives, the city aims to foster a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility among its residents. The upcoming changes in waste management services are expected to enhance the quality of life in Parkland, making it a cleaner and more environmentally friendly community.