The Kane County Energy and Environmental Committee on Nov. 14 approved two recycling-related agreements: a one‑year extension of the county's contract with E Works for staffing and operations at two recycling centers, and a one‑year reentry agreement with the Village of West Dundee to host a county recycling collection point.

Staff described the E Works extension as a second one‑year renewal of the existing arrangement, continuing staffing at the Fabian Parkway site and the West Dundee location. The contract also adds collection of loose batteries at Fabian, with E Works responsible for monitoring intake and training. County staff said equipment-related expenses (for example, forklift rental and temporary offices) are budgeted at $9,000 and are supported by the county's riverboat-grant recycling funds; staffing costs continue to be funded from television fees paid by residents.

Committee member Caius moved the E Works extension and the motion was put to a roll-call vote. Members voting yes included Kais, Panisis, Draftman, Young, Tarver and Bates; the motion passed with six ayes and no recorded opposition.

The second item was a reentry agreement allowing the county to continue using a portion of the Village of West Dundee's property for recycling collection. Staff said the West Dundee arrangement provides space for equipment and a temporary trailer and helps extend service coverage for the southern part of the county; the cost is budgeted at $7.50 per month (recorded as $7.50 in discussion) and is funded through the same riverboat grant. The committee moved and approved the West Dundee reentry agreement by roll call; recorded ayes included Pius, Panisis, Draftman, Young, Tarver and Bates.

Why it matters: The measures preserve existing county recycling access points, add a battery-collection option at Fabian, and use modest riverboat-grant funding for equipment and site access. Committee members noted the relative low cost and the operational benefits for residents in underserved geographic areas.

Next steps: Staff will implement the battery-collection procedures at Fabian, including online training for E Works staff and appropriate containers for damaged batteries, and continue routine reporting on the recycling program budget and operations.