During the time period of June 2 to June 9, 28 Orcas Islanders met with the intention of reaching a consensus on a design for the new buildings to house the Exchange. This group, some members of which did not attend all sessions, deliberated for a total of 14 hours.
Much of the time was spent grappling with overall traffic flow and circulation issues in relation to the locations of various elements spread over the site…the tipping floor, the scales, the “ZEE” wall, the attendant’s station…as well as the sequences involved in the entire solid waste disposal, recycling, and reuse process. For the new Exchange, this flow and circulation will determine the locations for a receiving area for items being dropped off, parking, public entry, etc.
For the Exchange itself, two buildings are proposed; one for household items and the other for building and construction materials. Our understanding is that under the terms of the agreement between SJC Public Works and Orcas Recycling Services, all items must be stored underroof in structures which can be permitted under our local building code. The group discussed a number of key issues central to the future building(s):
– The project should include as large a roof area that could be afforded in the near term with potential for expansion.
The group decided to continue its deliberations on Tuesday, June 18, 6:30 p.m. at the Firehall with an open invitation to newcomers, and to defer making a full report on its activities until the ORS Board meeting on Wednesday, June 26.
