"Innovations" Case Studies

Sonoma County Joint Powers Authority: A Model for Local Government Recycling and Waste Reduction

Sonoma County is a model of communities joining together through a regional agency to meet the requirements of the California Integrated Waste Management Act (AB 939, Sher, Chapter 1095, Statutes of 1989 as amended [IWMA]). The jurisdictions of Sonoma County worked together early in the planning process following the adoption of AB 939 in 1989.* In 1992, they agreed to formalize this regional cooperation and formed the Sonoma County Waste Management Agency as a joint powers authority (JPA).

Table of Contents

• Overview

• Program Characteristics

• Costs, Economics, and Benefits

• Local Government Challenges and Opportunities

• Tips for Replication

• For More Information

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Credits and Disclaimer

Gary Liss & Associates prepared this study pursuant to contract IWM-C8028 ($198,633, included other services) with the University of California at Santa Cruz for a series of 24 studies and summaries.

The Board would like to acknowledge the following individuals who assisted in the preparation of this document:

Ken Wells, Donna Caldwell, Lesli Daniel, and Joanna Kiesel, Sonoma County Waste Management Authority.

The statements and conclusions in this summary are those of the contractor and not necessarily those of the California Integrated Waste Management Board, its employees, or the State of California. In addition, the data in this report was provided by local sources but not independently verified. The State and its contractors make no warranty, express or implied, and assume no liability for the information contained in this text. Any mention of commercial products, companies, or processes shall not be construed as an endorsement of such products or processes.

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Last updated: October 26, 2007