Josh Raff (Action Environmental) supports CWZ working group, opposes Intro 911A
Josh Raff of Action Environmental Services supports Intros 75, 356, 367, and 369, strongly supports Intro 353's working group as a productive stakeholder forum, and staunchly opposes Intro 911A, saying it undermines Local Law 199 and would set a harmful precedent by disrupting the Staten Island zone before launch.
Thank you.
Good morning, Chair.
My name is Josh Hariff, and I serve as the Marcus Vice President for New York City Action Environmental Services, a subsidiary of Interstate Waste.
Thank you for the opportunity to deliver testimony regarding the bills considered during today's hearing.
With respect to bills 75, 356, 367, and 369, Action Carding supports reasonable legislation that encourages street cleanliness, expands access to composting, and promotes economically feasible disposal options.
Action is poised to support commercial businesses with relevant compliance education in alignment with the progression of these bills.
Furthermore, Action Carding staunchly supports Bill 353 introduced by Councilwoman Nurse.
The creation of a commercial waste zones working group would structure a healthy dialogue amongst critical stakeholders who are responsible for the successful realization of local law 199's key objectives.
Awarded carters engage with the DSNY to successfully onboard zones.
However, there are limited opportunities to provide or absorb more holistic feedback amongst industry colleagues.
This working group would be a productive forum.
To discuss customers' experiences transitioning to CWZ service agreements, operational best practices and technologies that prioritize safety, and opportunities for efficiency improvements within an evolving regulatory landscape.
In contrast, Action Carding staunchly opposes the adoption of Bill 911A, which would unnecessarily alter the operating framework and timely implementation of the CWZ program.
This bill undermines Local Law 199's intended goals by diluting the required caliber for CWZ awardees and neglecting the DSNY's ability to course-correct underperforming zones.
Staten Island's residents and businesses deserve to benefit from reduced truck traffic, vigilant safety standards, and transparency in the same regard as other boroughs.
Therefore, Action Carding encourages this committee to avoid establishing a harmful precedent by disrupting the program's potential before the zone even launches.
Thank you for your time.
Thank you, Josh.