Moving Waste-to-Energy from Idea to Action

One of the issues I hear about most from residents is the rising cost of government and the burden of property taxes. While there is no single solution, I believe local leaders should keep exploring innovative ways to reduce costs, create economic opportunities, and use our resources better.

That is why I am excited to share an update on the Waste-to-Energy initiative I have been working on.

After months of research and conversations with local stakeholders, I have partnered with the Rock Island County Waste Management Agency to participate in the U.S. Department of Energy's Waste-to-Energy

Technical Assistance Program. The next step is a one-hour kickoff meeting with Department of Energy experts, where we will begin evaluating opportunities, challenges, and potential pathways for a Waste-to-Energy project in Rock Island County.

This does not mean a project has been approved or that construction is around the corner. It does mean Rock Island County now has an opportunity to engage with national experts and receive technical guidance as we explore whether Waste-to-Energy could be a viable solution for our region.

A successful Waste-to-Energy project could help:

• Reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills

• Generate energy from materials that would otherwise be discarded

• Support economic development and job creation

• Create new long-term revenue opportunities for local governments

  
  

I believe we owe it to taxpayers to investigate every responsible option available. Too often, government focuses only on managing today's problems. We should also be looking for innovative solutions that can benefit future generations.

I want to thank the Rock Island County Waste Management Agency for their willingness to participate in this process and help move the conversation forward. I look forward to sharing updates as we continue working with the Department of Energy and learn more about what may be possible for Rock Island County.

Progress starts with a conversation, but results come from taking action. This is one more step toward exploring new opportunities for our community.