RS2026-2286: A resolution approving an application for a Healthy and Sustainable Communities grant from the U.S. Conference of Mayors to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Nashville Department of Waste Services, to support the implementation of a school cafeteria composting program at 33 Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools by providing equipment, supplies, and services needed to divert food waste from landfills while educating students and staff on sustainable waste management practices.

Description

A resolution approving an application for a Healthy and Sustainable Communities grant from the U.S. Conference of Mayors to the Metropolitan Government, acting by and through the Nashville Department of Waste Services, to support the implementation of a school cafeteria composting program at 33 Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools by providing equipment, supplies, and services needed to divert food waste from landfills while educating students and staff on sustainable waste management practices.

Summary

Nashville’s Metropolitan Council is asked to approve a resolution authorizing the Department of Waste Services to apply for up to $275,000 from the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ 2027 Healthy and Sustainable Communities Grant. No Metro cash match is required. If awarded, funds would expand the MNPS Cafeteria Composting Program to 33 schools in the Hunters Lane, John Overton, and Hillsboro clusters during 2027. The project would provide compost collection, bins, liners, food-rescue refrigerators, signage, transportation, and education. It is expected to divert an estimated 391,119 pounds of organic waste from landfills, recover edible food, and educate students and staff. Metro departments and nonprofit partners would track waste diversion, food rescue, participation, contamination, and greenhouse-gas reductions. The application is contingent on Council approval and is described as a one-time project.