Overview
Based on amendments to Part 115, Solid Waste Management, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended, each county is required to prepare a Materials Management Plan (MMP). Once approved, the MMP will replace the existing county solid waste plans. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is implementing the law as well as providing guidance and resources to counties as they embark on the development of MMPs.
MMPs are to focus on comprehensive materials management, including recycling, composting, other diversion activities, and disposal. These plans will establish goals with measurable objectives to divert recyclable and organics from disposal, while also increasing recycling access and education. Counties will have 36 months (three years) to complete the planning process.
Timeline
EGLE issued a formal initiation letter to counties in January of 2024, which triggered a series of activities required to be completed by each county.
In spring 2024, the counties of Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana passed resolutions agreeing to serve as the County Approval Agency (CAA), submit a Notice of Intent to EGLE, work together to prepare a multicounty/regional MMP, enter an interlocal agreement, and name the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC) as their Designated Planning Agency.
On July 3, 2024, WMSRDC submitted notices of intent (NOI) on behalf of the five counties. This date officially starts the 36-month timeframe for development and local approval of an MMP. The following steps must be completed by December 30, 2024:
- Appointment of the Material Management Planning Committee (MMPC)
- Development of a work program
- EGLE approval of work program from the Planning Committee
This page will be continually updated as more information becomes available. Visit the EGLE MMP website to learn more about the process.
WMSRDC is the Designated Planning Agency (DPA) for the counties of Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana for the purpose of creating a regional Materials Management Plan (MMP). As the DPA, WMSRDC’s roles and responsibilities include serving as the primary resources for the MMP development process, preparing the MMP under the guidance of the MMPC, and soliciting input from a variety of interested stakeholders.
Notices of Intent by County
NOI Notification to Local Governments Lake County
NOI Notification to Local Governments Mason County
NOI Notification to Local Governments Muskegon County