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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHF&H Consulting Proposal 2025 February 28, 2025 CITY OF DIAMOND BAR Solid Waste Consulting Professional Services Proposal HF&H Consultants 590 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Suite 105 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: (925) 977-6950 Web: hfh-consultants.com CONTENTS SECTION A: PROJECT TEAM .............................................. 3 Team Organization .............................................................. 3 HF&H Consultants ............................................................... 3 Subcontractor – ReCreate................................................... 13 SECTION B: EXPERIENCE AND REFERENCES ................... 17 HF&H Consultants, LLC ...................................................... 17 ReCreate .......................................................................... 22 Client References .............................................................. 25 SECTION C: METHODOLOGY & UNDERSTANDING ........... 26 The HF&H Difference ......................................................... 26 Systematic Approach to Project Management ........................ 27 Requested Services - Scope Of Work ................................... 29 SECTION D: COST FOR SERVICES ................................... 41 General ............................................................................ 41 Hourly Rates ..................................................................... 41 Direct Expenses ................................................................ 42 Invoices and Payment for Services ...................................... 42 SECTION E: INSURANCE ................................................. 42 SECTION F: CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT .......... 42 FIGURES FIGURE 1: TEAM ORGANIZATION CHART .......................... 3 FIGURE 2: HF&H REFERENCE TABLE ............................... 25 FIGURE 3: RECREATE REFERENCE TABLE ........................ 26 FIGURE 4: WHY CHOOSE HF&H? ..................................... 27 FIGURE 5: SEVEN STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS ...... 29 FIGURE 6: SCHEDULE OF HOURLY RATES (FY 2025-26) . 42 ATTACHMENTS A. KEY STAFF RESUMES B. CLIENT REFERENCE LETTERS C. SAMPLE CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE D. YEAR 1 AND 2 WORKPLANS E. RECREATE WORK SAMPLES HF&H Consultants 590 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Suite 105 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: (925) 977-6950 Web: hfh-consultants.com February 28, 2025 Tara Reyes Management Analyst City of Diamond Bar 21810 Copley Drive Diamond Bar, CA 91765 Submitted Electronically via PlanetBids Subject: Request for Proposal for Solid Waste Consulting Professional Services Dear Tara Reyes, HF&H Consultants, LLC (HF&H) is pleased to submit this proposal to the City of Diamond Bar (City) to provide solid waste consulting professional services. HF&H has a long history of successfully providing high-quality consulting services and tailored solutions to jurisdictions throughout the State of California (State) since 1989. Our depth of experience, over the past 30 years, with contract procurement, transition assistance, stakeholder engagement, legislative support, and program planning can provide the City with nuanced insights to overcome complex challenges. By partnering with HF&H, the City can capitalize on our experience to enhance contract management oversight to achieve collaborative and effective solutions to meet the City’s unique goals. We are proud of our 2009 and 2017 partnerships with the City, during which we supported the City in renegotiating and enhancing its solid waste agreements with Valley Vista Services (VVS) and Waste Management (WM) and delivered results mutually beneficial to both the City and its residents. Key improvements in the 2017 negotiations included a rate freeze for the first year, increased street sweeping funding, enhancements to the scout service program, a commercial and multi-family organics program, and compliance with key regulations. This customized proposal is centered around providing the City with the key qualifications listed below that set HF&H apart from our competitors and offer a strong foundation for effective contract management practices specifically customized for local agencies. HF&H is regarded as the industry expert for SB 1383 compliance; since developing model tools for CalRecycle in 2019, HF&H has continued to support jurisdictions and other regulated entities across the State with implementing programs and policies to reach compliance with SB 1383 regulations. In total, HF&H has worked with over 90 communities throughout the State, representing over 10 million residents, continuously adapting compliance to fit a variety of real-world conditions. Our range of SB 1383 experience supporting jurisdictions Statewide includes, but is not limited to, implementation record (IR) support, Jurisdiction and Agency Compliance and Enforcement (JACE) compliance evaluation assistance, corrective action plan (CAP) assistance, contract management compliance, strategic planning, cost modeling, sole source and competitive procurements, ordinance development, and engagement in the regulatory process. HF&H has also been a leader in the SB 54 rulemaking and implementation process; we were recently selected by CalRecycle to conduct the statewide SB 54 Needs Assessment. This Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 2 of 43 monumental project will identify the current state of recycling for jurisdictions, processing facilities, and end markets across the state, and analyze what is needed to meet the ambitious waste diversion and environmental justice goals set forth in the SB 54 statute. Both our relationship with CalRecycle and expertise with SB 54 position HF&H as an integral resource for the City and their goals. HF&H identifies the individual needs of our clients for each project and especially for contract management support; at HF&H, we partner with key stakeholders, including City Council, City staff, residents, and other applicable parties, to set measurable, achievable goals. The purpose of these goals is to meet the specific needs of the community and achieve regulatory compliance while minimizing the financial impact on ratepayers. Recognizing that the City is a member of the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG), HF&H will connect with City staff to assess current SGVCOG support to ensure that services are not duplicated, opportunities for collaboration are identified, and that the City receives the full value of HF&H’s expertise and support. Collaborating with clients has given us the experience that has developed into a vast array of facilitation methods, including online surveys, webinars, live streams, and council workshops. HF&H is an industry-recognized thought leader in environmental strategic planning, goal setting, policy development, and program implementation; clients of HF&H receive innovative and pragmatic solid waste and recycling plans that have been developed with decades worth of diverse experience. Our pioneer role in the zero-waste planning field, including assisting communities such as the cities of San Diego, Santa Monica, and Oceanside, and the County of San Diego, has provided us with an unmatched menu of services and programs, as well as unrivaled implementation experience. HF&H staff also includes SWANA and CRRA certified zero waste instructors. This range of experience allows us to develop both short and long- term goals that meet the specific needs of our clients, while maintaining a realistic understanding of the impacts on client costs and diversion. HF&H does not provide solid waste consulting services to waste haulers and instead provides consulting services exclusively to municipalities for the better interest of our clients and to avoid potential conflicts of interest that may arise in firms that attempt to serve both public agencies and haulers. Our municipal focus also ensures that we are aware of the unique requirements of public officials. Overall, HF&H has no financial, business, or other relationship with the City that may have an impact upon the outcome of the Consulting Services Agreement or any conflicts of interest. While HF&H is confident in our ability to meet the current timeline for the contract award and subsequent planning, we would like to respectfully encourage the City to consider advancing the award date, if feasible. An earlier award would provide additional time for thorough planning, enhancing overall execution and maximizing preparation for the upcoming transition. We understand that the current schedule is set with careful consideration, and we are fully prepared to adhere to it; however, if there is any flexibility, we believe that this extra planning time could greatly benefit all parties involved and lead to an even more successful outcome. All conditions proposed below are valid for a period of ninety (90) calendar days. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 3 of 43 Section A: Project Team TEAM ORGANIZATION Figure 1: Team Organization Chart HF&H CONSULTANTS Background Founded in 1989, HF&H is a consulting firm that specializes in providing tailored solutions to local governments in two key practice areas: recycling and solid waste services, and water, wastewater, and stormwater services. Our consultancy focuses on offering environmentally responsible economic, financial, and strategic planning and management services. Throughout our 35-year history, HF&H has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving clients exceptionally and with unwavering integrity. While our primary focus has been on municipal agencies within the State, we have also extended our consulting services to other states and are actively seeking opportunities to assist agencies nationwide. HF&H is led by three partners: Rob Hilton, Laith Ezzet, and Rick Simonson. Laith Ezzet will be the City’s project partner. Laith is deeply familiar with the City Laith Ezzet Project Director Haley Kunert Project Manager Other HF&H Staff as Relevant April Hamud SB 1383 Procurement Specialist ReCREATE Staff SB 1383 Technical Assistance Karla Del Rosario Lead Project Analyst Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 4 of 43 of Diamond Bar through various engagements dating back to audits of WM and VVS in 2005 and negotiations in 2016. Staff Qualifications Laith B. Ezzet, CMC®, Project Director A Certified Management Consultant, Laith Ezzet has over 30 years of experience as an economist and solid waste consultant. As Senior Vice President of HF&H, he has assisted over 100 public agencies with planning, implementing, and monitoring their solid waste collection, recycling, and disposal programs to achieve compliance with CalRecycle regulations, including AB 939, AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383. During the course of these engagements, he has presented to or participated in more than 200 public workshops and public meetings for City Councils, Boards of Supervisors, and citizens’ advisory groups. He has assisted public agencies with obtaining solid waste agreements and/or waste flow agreements through competitive procurements and exclusive negotiations valued at more than two billion dollars collectively. Laith is a past member of the Board of Directors of the California Resource Recovery Association, and for over 20 years has served as a Director of the Southern California Founding Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America. Diversion Programs and Contract Management Laith has helped more than 50 public agencies monitor and evaluate their recycling and waste diversion program requirements in order to comply with State waste diversion goals and negotiate revised franchise agreement terms to enhance recycling and waste diversion programs offered in those communities. He has assisted cities to develop waste and recycling tonnage reporting formats and related auditing requirements for both exclusive franchise agreements and non-exclusive service arrangements. He has assisted the City of Los Angeles in evaluating the feasibility of achieving its 70% diversion plan. He has assisted agencies to manage their solid waste collection and recycling contracts, and/or manage compliance with CalRecycle SB 1383 requirements, including the Cities of El Monte, Garden Grove, Huntington Park, Inglewood, Irvine, Lawndale, La Quinta, Newport Beach, Palm Desert, Yorba Linda, and others. He has assisted numerous agencies with planning, identifying SB 1383 program gaps, negotiating and/or evaluating organics recycling programs to comply with AB 1826 and/or SB 1383, including the Cities of Anaheim, Aliso Viejo, Brea, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Norwalk, Palm Desert, Palmdale, Placentia, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, South Gate, Yorba Linda, Whittier, and the Counties of Santa Barbara and San Bernardino. Procurement and Contract Negotiations Laith has managed numerous procurement engagements for solid waste services contracts, including Request for Proposal (RFP) preparation, proposal evaluation, and negotiation support. Examples of clients for whom he has helped obtain new solid waste services contracts include the Cities of Alhambra, Anaheim, Beverly Hills, Bellflower, Cerritos, Dana Point, Diamond Bar, El Centro, Hermosa Beach, Huntington Park, Imperial Beach, Indian Wells, Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 5 of 43 Inglewood, Lake Forest, Lawndale, Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Norwalk, Orange, Palm Desert, Palmdale, Pico Rivera, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rancho Cucamonga, Rancho Santa Margarita, Redondo Beach, Riverside, Santa Ana, Santa Clarita, South Gate, Tustin, West Hollywood, and Whittier, as well as the Counties of Orange, San Bernardino, and Santa Barbara. He managed the procurement of a new solid waste system operator for San Bernardino County’s landfills and transfer stations. He has assisted public agencies to secure solid waste agreements with a total value of more than two billion dollars, including competitive procurements, renegotiation of existing contracts, and waste flow agreements. The competitive solid waste collection procurements managed by Laith have a total value over one billion dollars, and he has saved public agencies more than 200 million dollars, with some agencies saving up to 40%. He assisted the Orange County City Managers’ Solid Waste Working Group with negotiating 10-year waste disposal agreements with the County of Orange. He authored a paper entitled “How Much Can You Save Through Competitive Proposals?” that was presented at the Solid Waste Association of North America’s (SWANA) Western Regional Symposium. In October 2022 he led a seminar for the American Public Works Association titled “Best Practices for Solid Waste Contracting.” Solid Waste Rate Studies and Audits Laith has provided expert solid waste advice to over 70 cities and counties regarding rate analysis, cost of service studies, program planning and funding, and negotiation of solid waste rates. Examples of clients to whom he has assisted with fee audits, performance audits, contract compliance audits, and solid waste rate analysis of both existing and proposed services include the Cities of Anaheim, Arcadia, Bellflower, Beverly Hills, Burbank, Chandler, Covina, Dana Point, Downey, El Monte, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Glendale, Hermosa Beach, Hesperia, Indian Wells, Indio, Inglewood, La Palma, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Long Beach, Monterey Park, Moreno Valley, Orange, Palm Springs, Pasadena, Placentia, Pomona, Redondo Beach, San Bernardino, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Clarita, Santa Monica, Seal Beach, Torrance, Whittier, Yorba Linda, and others. During the course of these and other engagements, Laith has directed the auditing of financial and operating records at approximately 100 solid waste companies throughout Southern California. Education and Professional Credentials A.B., Economics, Occidental College M.B.A., Tuck School of Business Administration at Dartmouth College Certified Management Consultant®, Institute of Management Consultants USA Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 6 of 43 Haley Kunert, Project Manager Haley Kunert is a Senior Project Manager with HF&H. Haley has two years of experience in sustainability services, gained while attending the University of California San Diego, and over nine years with HF&H Consultants. She currently assists with SB 1383 planning and implementation, managing solid waste franchise agreements, transition support, legislative compliance and diversion monitoring, audit services, solid waste rate reviews, contract negotiation services, contract procurements and RFPs, valuation models, program implementation services, grant management, CalRecycle annual reporting, community public education and outreach, and conducting solid waste rate studies. Haley has worked with both of the City’s franchised haulers in prior engagements, including supporting the City of El Monte with transitioning a quadrant of the city from Waste Management to Valley Vista Services. Additionally, Haley serves as the Vice President of the Local Southern California Founding Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) and volunteers for the National Steering Committee of SWANA for young professionals. Ongoing Contract Management/Solid Waste Consulting Services Haley assists with ongoing contract management and solid waste consulting services to jurisdictions in Southern California. The scope of work for these engagements includes monitoring contractor compliance with franchise agreement requirements regarding reporting, fee payments, and public education and outreach. Haley meets with city staff and haulers on a regular basis to review ongoing contractor compliance and monitor program diversion performance. She is currently assisting the cities of Palm Desert, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Inglewood, and Yorba Linda. Additionally, the engagements include a review of the haulers’ annual rate adjustment requests and monitoring of reported tonnage, hauler fee payments, and other required hauler reporting. Haley has worked with Waste Management and Valley Vista Services in the Cities of Irvine, Bell Gardens, and El Monte through prior engagements. Solid Waste Legislative Compliance Haley has assisted clients in preparing for the mandatory recycling regulations included in Assembly Bills 939, 341, 1826, and 1383. This assistance has included gathering current commercial refuse and recycling service level data from the cities’ haulers, documenting the number of accounts covered under the regulations, calculating the current level of compliance and appropriate recycling service fees, and developing public education and outreach materials. She is currently assisting the cities of Anaheim, Palm Desert, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Placentia, Inglewood, Garden Grove, and Yorba Linda with the tracking and implementation of recycling and organics recycling programs for businesses and multi-family complexes. Also, she annually assists the cities of Palm Desert, Inglewood, Garden Grove, Yorba Linda, and Fullerton in the completion or review of their CalRecycle EAR. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 7 of 43 Procurement and Contract Negotiations (Including Organics Program Reviews) Haley has assisted with numerous procurement engagements for solid waste services contracts, including RFP preparation, proposal evaluation, and negotiation support. Examples of clients for whom she has helped to obtain new solid waste services contracts or renegotiated existing agreements include the cities of Palm Desert, Anaheim, Brea Maywood, Seal Beach, Placentia, Lawndale, Redondo Beach, Inglewood, Santa Ana, Yorba Linda, and Garden Grove. She has been assisting Orange County cities with negotiations of programs for compliance with SB 1383. Recently, the Cities of Anaheim, Garden Grove, and Yorba Linda concluded their negotiations and implemented the required amendment or restated agreements. Previously, she completed reviews of each franchise agreement and SB 1383 planning gap analyses to help the cities prepare and make key decisions to plan for SB 1383. She also worked with the Cities of Inglewood and Palm Desert in negotiations for compliance with the requirements of SB 1383. Both Inglewood and Palm Desert are now reporting full compliance through auto- enrollment in their restated franchise agreements. Solid Waste Rate Studies Haley assisted with conducting surveys of residential and commercial solid waste collection services and rates in various cities throughout Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties. Haley has also gathered rate and program data related to organics collection for the cities of Anaheim, Brea, El Monte, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Placentia, Villa Park, and Yorba Linda to determine the reasonableness of organics rates. For the past three years, she has assisted the City of Anaheim with a rate survey to gather information from all cities in Orange County. Education and Professional Credentials B.S., Environmental Systems, University of California San Diego, La Jolla Certificate in Sustainability and Behavior Change with University of California San Diego Extension Program Current Southern California SWANA Chapter Vice President SWANA National Steering Committee Member – Young Professional Representative Karla Del Rosario, Lead Project Analyst Karla Del Rosario is a Senior Associate with HF&H and has eight years of experience in solid waste and recycling contract compliance, reporting, and successful diversion program development and implementation. Karla currently assists with monitoring contract compliance with franchise agreements (collection service, reporting, fee payments, rate structure, diversion performance, etc.), SB 1383 planning and implementation, strategic legislative planning, effective program development, and hauler transition assistance. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 8 of 43 Ongoing Contract Management/Solid Waste Consulting Services Karla provides on-going contract management and solid waste consulting services to several cities in Southern California, including the cities of Bell Gardens, Gardena, South Gate, and Santa Ana. The scope of work for these engagements involves profiling the cities’ solid waste franchise agreement(s) and municipal code to ensure hauler compliance with all service, reporting, fee payment, rate structure, performance, and public education and outreach requirements. She meets with city staff and the haulers on a regular basis to review ongoing contractor compliance, monitor program diversion performance, assist in the development of effective public education and outreach campaigns, and provide expertise in new diversion program development. Contract Procurement and Transition Assistance Karla has supported the cities of Monterey Park and Hidden Hills throughout the procurement process by helping develop RFPs, profiling existing contracts, evaluating proposals, and offering negotiation assistance. Most recently, following the City of Monterey Park’s award of the residential franchise agreement to a new hauler in 2024, Karla facilitated the transition process, ensuring the new hauler was fully prepared to launch collection services smoothly from day one. Solid Waste Legislative Compliance Karla has assisted clients in preparing for the mandatory recycling regulations included in AB 939, AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383. This assistance included reviewing and monitoring commercial refuse and recycling service level data from the cities’ haulers, verifying the number of accounts covered under the regulations, calculating the current level of compliance and appropriate recycling service fees, and reviewing and developing public education and outreach materials. Currently, she works with the cities of Bell Gardens, Gardena, South Gate, and Santa Ana with the tracking and implementation of recycling and organics recycling programs for businesses and multi-family complexes, in addition to annually assisting cities in the completion or review of their CalRecycle EAR. Education and Professional Credentials B.A., Environmental Studies, University of California, Santa Cruz CRRA / SWANA Zero Waste Principle and Practices Certification April Hamud, CMC®, SB 1383 Procurement Specialist April Hamud, a Certified Management Consultant and Senior Project Manager at HF&H Consultants, has assisted dozens of clients in helping them achieve their solid waste and recycling program goals. For over 13 years, April has assisted municipal agencies with contract procurements, contract negotiations, grant management, financial modeling, and rate studies. April has assisted many jurisdictions with SB 1383 support, including gap analyses, solid waste contract updates, recovered organic waste product (ROWP) procurement assessments, and implementation record support. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 9 of 43 SB 1383 ROWP Planning Assistance Since 2023, April has presented on “SB 1383 ROWP Procurement Strategies” to several working groups and industry conferences. Recently, April has presented on the new laws that affect SB 1383 ROWP procurement targets, including AB 2902 and AB 2346, examples of direct service provider agreements, and the availability of different products that satisfy the procurement requirements. April has provided ROWP procurement planning assistance to the cities of Beverly Hills, Gardena, and Irvine. Contract Procurement and Transition Assistance April has assisted several jurisdictions with procurement engagements for solid waste franchise agreements, including the cities of Monterey Park, South Gate, Alhambra, Chino Hills, Palmdale, Manhattan Beach, Beverly Hills, Pico Rivera, and counties of Santa Barbara and Orange, during which April prepared the RFP and franchise agreement, conducted the proposal cost evaluation, and provided negotiation support. After the City of Monterey Park awarded the residential franchise agreement to a new hauler in 2024, April provided transition support, ensuring the new hauler was well-equipped to begin collection services seamlessly at the start of the new agreement. Ongoing Contract Management/Solid Waste Consulting Services April has provided ongoing contract management assistance to the cities of Lawndale, La Quinta, Inglewood, Irvine, Bell Gardens, and Bell. She has attended monthly or quarterly meetings with city officials and the franchised haulers to ensure that solid waste haulers remain in compliance with the approved contract. Education and Professional Credentials B.S., Applied Mathematics in Economics, University of California, Riverside M.A., Economics, California State University Fullerton Certified Management Consultant®, Institute of Management Consultants USA Colleen Foster, Legislative Specialist Colleen Foster is a Senior Associate with HF&H and has 20 years of experience with local government in solid waste and recycling, public policy, community development, and water and wastewater utility management. Her expertise is in contract administration, public competitive procurement, SB 1383 compliance, solid waste, recycling, and organics planning and implementation, zero waste programming, regulatory compliance, climate action, sustainable food systems and food recovery, and legislative advocacy. Prior to her tenure at HF&H, Colleen led the award recognized Solid Waste and Recycling Program (Green Oceanside) at the City of Oceanside, where she developed extensive experience overseeing public agency diversion programming, team and staff development, stakeholder engagement, voluntary and mandatory recycling and organics service rollouts, environmental inspections and programming (conservation, stormwater, zero waste), grant Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 10 of 43 administration, biosolids and organics to energy planning, and leading innovative extended producer responsibility programming targeting difficult to recycle materials, single use plastics, and hazardous waste. In recent years, Colleen has developed expertise in SB 1383 regulatory compliance, managed and designed multiple model SB 1383 service programs including innovative rate structures, pay as you throw, waste prevention, food recovery, and education and outreach for diverse audiences. Colleen is currently supporting multiple clients with franchise contract administration, rate and performance analysis, SB 1383 compliance gap analysis, compliance action planning, enforcement, implementation record development, and zero waste centric program development. Education and Professional Credentials B.A., International Relations, University of California, Davis Master of Environmental Law and Policy, Vermont School of Law Instructor - Zero Waste Principles and Practices Joint Certification with CRRA 2024 SWANA Professional Achievement Award for a Private Sector Member Lindsey Lagos, CPA, Rates and Audits Specialist Lindsey Lagos brings 11 years of public accounting assurance experience to the HF&H Rates & Audits team. In her role as a Project Manager, she assists in hauler contract compliance audits, rate studies, cost of service analyses, competitive solid waste procurements, contract negotiation services, and contract management. Lindsey’s primary focus in her public accounting career was financial statement audits, which included assisting clients with the adoption of new regulations. Solid Waste Hauler Contract Compliance Audits Lindsey has performed hauler compliance reviews for the cities of Beverly Hills, Inglewood, Lawndale, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Palmdale, Aliso Viejo, and Whittier. She is currently performing compliance reviews for the cities of El Centro and Santa Ana. Compliance review tasks help determine if the solid waste hauler is compliant with key contract terms. Focus areas have included, but have not been limited to, billing validation, customer service, outreach and education requirements, reporting, and recycling program compliance. Solid Waste Rate Services Lindsey has assisted jurisdictions in the areas of rate analysis, cost of service studies, and negotiating solid waste rates. She has assisted the cities of Aliso Viejo, Beverly Hills, El Centro, Inglewood, Irvine, Lawndale, and Paramount in controlling increases to their solid waste rates by evaluating waste haulers’ rate adjustment requests for accuracy and compliance with contract rate adjustment provisions. She has assisted the City of Long Beach in performing cost of service analyses to ensure properly set rates. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 11 of 43 Contract Procurement and Negotiations Lindsey has assisted the cities of Alhambra, Chino Hills, Santa Ana, and South Gate through the procurement process for new solid waste collection and recycling agreements. She has assisted in RFP development through drafting rate and cost proposal forms and profiling existing contracts. She has analyzed and evaluated hauler proposals for solid waste collection and recycling services. She additionally participated in negotiations with the existing hauler for the cities of Aliso Viejo and Irvine. SB 1383 Compliance Lindsey has assisted the cities of Aliso Viejo and El Centro to amend and restate their solid waste agreements to properly incorporate SB 1383 requirements, which included involvement in negotiating agreement terms and rate impacts with the related waste haulers. She has assisted the cities of Irvine, Lawndale, and South Gate in their compliance efforts through regulatory reporting, monitoring program progress, assisting with outreach, etc. Education and Professional Credentials B.S., Accounting, Chapman University Certified Public Accountant California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CALCPA) Jake Kaihewalu, Data and Reporting Specialist Jake Kaihewalu is a Senior Associate with HF&H and brings to the firm four years of experience in solid waste and recycling services related to contract compliance, technical reporting, public education and outreach, data analytics, and program development and implementation. He currently assists with ongoing contract management and monitoring, CalRecycle annual reporting and report template development, legislative compliance (including SB 1383 program development and implementation), and rate analysis projects. Ongoing Contract Management/Solid Waste Consulting Services Jake provides ongoing contract management and solid waste consulting services to several cities in Southern California, including the cities of Anaheim, Bell Gardens, Garden Grove, Irvine, and Yorba Linda. Jake has the unique experience of managing over 20 commercial haulers under various non-exclusive franchise agreements for his clients to ensure hauler compliance with all service, reporting, fee payment, rate structure, performance, and public education and outreach requirements. He prepares summary analysis documents using hauler report data and meets with city staff on a regular basis to review ongoing contractor compliance, monitor program diversion performance, and provide guidance on improving diversion program results. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 12 of 43 Solid Waste Legislative Compliance Jake has assisted clients in preparing for the mandatory recycling regulations included in Assembly Bills 939, 341, 827, 1826, and Senate Bill 1383. This assistance has included developing automatic enrollment programs for recycling and organics programs, creating outreach to assist noncompliant generators, and implementing Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) under SB 1383. In addition, Jake specializes in recordkeeping tool development, such as hauler report templates, SB 1383 Implementation Record monitoring tools, and AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383 generator compliance tracking reports. Currently, he works with the cities of Anaheim, Bell Gardens, Garden Grove, and Irvine with tracking and implementation of recycling and organics recycling programs for businesses and multi-family complexes, in addition to annually assisting cities in the completion or review of their CalRecycle EAR. Education B.S., Statistics and Data Science, University of California, Santa Barbara B.A., Environmental Studies, University of California, Santa Barbara Sam Irwin, GIS Specialist Sam Irwin is a Senior Associate with HF&H and assists in monitoring solid waste franchise agreements, reviewing solid waste rates, negotiating contract services, drafting modern solid waste contracts, updating municipal codes for SB 1383 legislative compliance, and surveying solid waste rates and programs. She has provided solid waste consulting services to the Cities of Palm Desert, Bell Gardens, Irvine, Lawndale, and Inglewood. She has performed rate adjustments for the Cities of Beverly Hills and El Centro, as well as San Bernardino County and Orange County. As a graduate student, Sam researched natural resource management and incentives for organic waste diversion. She has led public education and outreach related to zero waste programs and practices for seven years, specializing in organic waste. Sam founded UC San Diego’s Food Recovery Network to divert food waste for its highest purpose: feeding people, not landfills. Solid Waste Rate Studies Sam has assisted jurisdictions in the areas of rate analysis and negotiating solid waste rates. She has assisted the City of Anaheim with their solid waste rate survey for three years. In 2022, Sam modernized the rate survey form, increasing respondent understanding of questions asked, and clarifying responses provided. In 2021, she assisted Los Angeles County Sanitary District in surveying all 88 jurisdictions within the County, and created maps to share the geographical significance of the results. She has assisted the Cities of Beverly Hills and El Centro as well as Orange County in controlling increases to their solid waste rates by evaluating waste haulers’ rate adjustment requests for accuracy and compliance with contract-rate adjustment provisions. Sam ensured the County of San Bernardino’s rate schedules were accurately calculated for all thirty of its County-franchise areas in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 13 of 43 Education and Professional Credentials B.A., International Studies, University of CA, San Diego M.S., Applied Economics, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign SWANA Certified Manager of Zero Waste Support from Additional HF&H Staff To ensure the continued success and efficiency of your City’s project, we have additional staff available to support the City of Diamond Bar for unique requests that may require a specialist from our team. Commitment of Staff Resources At HF&H, we prioritize delivering exceptional value to our clients through a focused, attentive, and expert team. Our commitment extends to both our clients and our professional staff, and one way we uphold this commitment is by maintaining reasonable workloads for our Project Managers. Unlike many of our competitors who demand 50+ hour work weeks and 80%-90% billable "utilization" from their staff, HF&H professionals work an average of 42.5 hours per week with an average utilization of 62%. This approach has garnered positive feedback from our clients, who frequently report that our staff is accessible, pleasant to work with, and willing to delve into the intricacies of their projects. We manage workloads diligently through our project management system, which includes biweekly planning updates and "all hands" meetings to forecast current and proposed project work for each professional over a planning horizon of six to nine months or more for large projects. By implementing this process, we identify when an individual professional's workload has reached capacity. Before taking on any new work assignment, we carefully consider the schedule and projected workload for each professional to ensure they have the necessary time to focus on and cater to the client's needs. In some cases, this may lead us to decline work to maintain our ability to successfully complete projects without compromising quality. Our commitment to manageable workloads allows us to provide our clients with dedicated attention and ensures that our professionals have the capacity to deliver the highest level of service. SUBCONTRACTOR – RECREATE HF&H plans to work with ReCREATE Waste Collaborative LLC (ReCREATE) as a subcontractor for Tasks 3a, 3b, and 3c in the proposed scope of services. HF&H is confident ReCREATE’s experience will support the City’s long-term goals of compliance with State mandates and encourage successful recycling, organics, and solid waste programming. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 14 of 43 Background ReCREATE is a Limited Liability Company (S-Corporation) founded in 2020 with owners that bring over 25 years of experience in the solid waste and recycling industry. ReCREATE is specialized in the planning and implementation of State laws AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383, specific to increasing participation in diversion programs, reducing contamination, and changing consumer behaviors and perceptions through creative outreach strategies. The talented and highly experienced staff provide engaging education and outreach to diverse communities with health and safety measures at the forefront of our operations while executing edible food inspections, site visits, and route reviews in the community. ReCREATE specializes in the edible food recovery specialty services that the City is seeking, and they have a wide-ranging understanding of solid waste and recycling as a whole, including experience in organizing and conducting waste characterizations in multiple states, implementing plastic waste reduction policies, executing route reviews at over 10,000 households, managing waste hauler contracts, collaborating with haulers on the implementation of new services, and developing community-based social marketing campaigns for local jurisdictions. ReCREATE’s primary services are edible food recovery program inspections, education and outreach, and route review lid flip assessments. ReCREATE has the tools, knowledge and experience to support the City’s diversion of solid waste from the landfill. Staff qualifications for ReCREATE ’s project leads are included below. They will be supported by additional team members to complete the scope of work. Additionally, Attachment E container Sample Work Products developed by ReCREATE to showcase options for the City. Staff Qualifications Natalie Lessa, Director of SB 1383 Compliance Natalie is a co-founder and the Director of Education and Outreach at ReCREATE. Natalie has 14 years of experience organizing and managing zero waste programs for food and beverage establishments, local jurisdictions, public schools, and private and non-profit food recovery clients. She leads the firm’s edible food recovery and education and outreach related projects and is responsible for quality control of business site visit reports, edible food recovery inspections and reports, and directing and producing deliverables such as those required as part of Task B.1 and B.3. Relevant Experience • Edible food recovery inspection project lead for SGVCOG (Sub to SCS Engineers), Cities of Burbank, Glendale, La Mirada, Riverside, Santa Clarita, Torrance, and more • Edible food recovery inspection plans for SGVCOG, Cities of Torrance, Riverside, California City, and Ceres Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 15 of 43 • City of Burbank business outreach for single-use foodware reduction and visual waste audits (400 businesses); school waste sort program assistance; social media content development; multifamily door hanger creation and distribution • Zero waste plans for the cities of Santa Monica, Santa Rosa, Carlsbad and the Town of Windsor • City of Culver City commercial visual waste audits (300+ commercial accounts) and edible food recovery inspection training to consultant staff (sub to Go2Zero) • Alameda County visual classroom waste audits (60+ classrooms) • San Bernardino County Joint Powers Authority (JPA) 1,200 household outreach campaign, report writing, outreach material development (print, website, social) • Multiple residential cart-tagging projects for The Recycling Partnership in Florida, Illinois, and New Jersey Specific Skills & Certificates • Business Technical Assistance Program Development • Recycling ambassador program development and training • Public surveying and community engagement • Grant writing, report writing, plan writing and editing • Project management and client relations • Single-use plastics policy development and stakeholder engagement • Zero waste plan writing, stakeholder engagement and implementation Education and Professional Credentials • California Resource Recovery Association, Behavior-Based Strategies TC, Co-Chair • GreenEduation.US Instructor – Education & Outreach Courses • Certified Sustainable Resource Management Professional – San Jose State University • Climate Protection Professional Certificate – Skyline College (Climate Corps Bay Area) • Advanced Certificate in Community-Based Social Marketing – Doug McKenzie-Mohr • Women in Solid Waste and Recycling SoCal Chapter, Leadership Team, Secretary Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 16 of 43 Kirk Kunihiro, SB 1383 Compliance Assistant Kirk is a co-founder and the Director of Waste Characterizations and Audits at ReCREATE. Kirk has 13 years of direct experience managing large-scale waste characterizations for local jurisdictions, Statewide studies, and large events. He leads all of ReCREATE’s waste route review projects, which requires finding workable solutions for scheduling waste collection/sample pick-ups in coordination with local jurisdiction and waste hauler staff. Kirk is responsible for the development of task B2 deliverables, quality control of field work data, overseeing and coordinating route reviews, and serving as the direct contact between the jurisdiction and waste hauler(s). Prior to founding ReCREATE with Natalie Lessa, Kirk operated a small independent consulting company, Planet People Waste Insights, for 3 years, assisting larger environmental consulting companies with the implementation of waste characterization and outreach projects. Relevant Experience • City of San Luis Obispo waste characterization and program recommendations • Burrtec Waste Industries households route reviews and multi-family outreach (40,000+) • City of Torrance residential route reviews • City and County of Los Angeles household cart-based waste characterization & outreach • San Bernardino County JPA residential cart-based waste characterization project management, residential route reviews to over 9 jurisdictions; outreach development • CalRecycle (Statewide waste characterization studies; subconsultant) • State of Washington waste characterization lead, staff oversight, project support • New York City citywide waste characterization sort and project support • Waste characterization presentations to the Solid Waste Association of North America and California Resource and Recovery Association Specific Skills • Route review management and scheduling • Coordination with haulers and municipality staff to plan fieldwork • Development of data collection and management systems • Development of outreach and education materials • Development and implementation of large-scale waste characterization studies Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 17 of 43 • Statewide studies and cart-based sampling • Project management • Data analysis Section B: Experience and References HF&H CONSULTANTS, LLC Strength Through Experience HF&H has provided leadership, expertise, independence, and support to hundreds of municipal agencies through over 2,500 engagements. Our reputation for excellent client service is well- established, as approximately 70% of our work comes from repeat clients, some of whom we have partnered with for over three decades. Our track record, measured by the number and types of engagements and the number of repeat clients, demonstrates our ability to consistently deliver a high level of client satisfaction. We have assembled one of the most accomplished teams of consultants in the industry. Our partners and senior managers possess 15 to 35 years of direct experience in the consulting industry, serve on professional association boards, have presented numerous papers, and, in two cases, co-authored a widely used industry manual on zero waste planning, funding, and programming. Currently, three of our employees serve as faculty for the CRRA and SWANA “Zero Waste Principles and Practices Training,” which is a nationally recognized professional certification program. Our team leverages proven management and analytical tools to develop creative solutions that support our clients in achieving their objectives. At HF&H, we take pride in our low staff turnover rate, which reflects our teams' enthusiasm for serving clients and their deep respect for our approach and the quality of work we deliver. Relevant Experience City of Palm Desert Contract Monitoring Services (2020 – Present) Project Description In 2020, HF&H was hired to assist the City in negotiating a modernized SB 1383 compliant solid waste franchise agreement with Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services. From 2020, HF&H has been providing ongoing franchise agreement monitoring assistance and support of the City’s SB 1383 program implementation and development. Work Performed by HF&H • Reviewing hauler records and public education and outreach for SB 1383 compliance. • Acting as a liaison between the City and CalRecycle to support state reporting requirements. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 18 of 43 • Developing SB 1383 reporting and tracking templates, including self-haul forms, waiver forms, C&D program updates, etc. • Advising on food recovery program implementation, including responding to inquiries, ensuring agreement compliance, reviewing outreach, and creating templates as requested. • Drafting 2023 Biennial Brochure language to address all SB 1383 education and outreach requirements. • Supporting the City of Plam Desert in maintaining their SB 1383 Implementation Record and reviewing it for SB 1383 compliance. • Train ing new jurisdictional staff in SB 1383 requirements and responding to additional inquiries, such as capacity planning. Project Results • Monthly review of hauler records brought the City from an Informal Mandatory Organics Recycling Plan into SB 1383 compliance. • The City of Palm Desert successfully completed an automatic roll-out of organics and recycling containers for all generators. • The City of Palm Desert’s organic waste diversion has been steadily increasing since 2020. • The City was able to enter into an agreement with FIND Food Bank to facilitate their Edible Food Recovery Program. Key HF&H Staff Laith Ezzet, Haley Kunert, and Sam Irwin City of Bell Gardens Contract & Legislative Compliance (2011-Present) Project Description The City of Bell Gardens’ residential sector is served under an exclusive franchise agreement. The City of Bell Gardens’ commercial and multi-family sector is served by six haulers under non-exclusive competitive franchise agreements. The City of Bell Gardens retained HF&H to monitor hauler contract compliance, assist with AB 939, AB 1826, AB 341, and SB 1383 compliance, and provide ongoing solid waste consulting assistance. Work Performed by HF&H • Reviewing the haulers’ operational and financial data to ensure proper payment of city fees and reporting of tonnage. • Reviewing rate increase requests submitted by the exclusive franchised hauler on an annual basis. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 19 of 43 • Developing measures to ensure compliance with the State’s mandatory recycling programs and providing updates to City Council. • Preparing AB 939 Annual Reports. • Developing construction and demolition diversion procedures and documents to ensure compliance with the CalGreen building code. • Amending the exclusive and non-exclusive solid waste agreements to conform with the requirements of AB 341, AB 1826, AB 1594, and SB 1383. • Amended the municipal code and developing new ordinances to comply with SB 1383. Results • Ensured that City fees are accurately calculated and remitted on time. • Worked with each hauler on an individual basis to ensure compliance with the AB 341, and AB 1826. • Ensured hauler compliance – meetings between HF&H, the haulers, and the City of Bell Gardens ensure compliance with all of the requirements of the solid waste and recycling collection contract. • Ensured legislative compliance. Key HF&H Staff Laith Ezzet, Karla Del Rosario, and Jake Kaihewalu City of Irvine Franchise Management (2010-Present) Project Description The City of Irvine has an exclusive franchise agreement with Waste Management of Orange County (WM) for the collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal of solid waste from the residential and certain commercial areas of the City of Irvine, and non-exclusive agreements with over 20 haulers for the collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal of solid waste from areas of Irvine that are not subject to the City of Irvine’s exclusive franchise agreement. Work Performed by HF&H • Meeting with the City of Irvine and the exclusive hauler on an as-needed basis to assist in the development and implementation of organics and recycling programs. During the exclusive hauler’s SB 1383 residential program roll-out, meetings were held on a weekly basis. • Reviewing tonnage and fee payment reports submitted to the City by the non-exclusive and exclusive haulers on a quarterly basis. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 20 of 43 • Meeting with the City to review hauler contract compliance, diversion, fee payments, and legislative compliance with SB 1383, AB 1826, and AB 341 requirements. • Reviewing annual franchise fee remittances, reported receipts, and determining the reasonableness and accuracy of tonnage reported by selected waste haulers under the non-exclusive and exclusive agreements. In addition to fee and tonnage analysis, ensuring annual activities, such as SB 1383 contamination monitoring and education requirements, are performed by the City of Irvine’s franchise haulers. • Providing the City with legislative compliance support for CalRecycle matters, including the Electronic Annual Report, Corrective Action Plan reporting, and other related requests on an as-needed basis. Preparing for and attending the annual CalRecycle conference calls and site visits to the City of Irvine. • Providing recommendations for the City of Irvine through our review, analysis, and participation in franchise agreement negotiations, non-exclusive hauler Statement of Qualifications, SB 1383 procurement strategies, rate adjustment reviews, and other requests as they arise. • Coordinating with haulers to track route reviews, program compliance, vehicle information, and other data that may be requested by the City of Irvine. Results • Assisted the City of Irvine in implementing SB 1383 reporting with their exclusive and non-exclusive haulers to gain consistency and ensure reporting requirements per SB 1383 regulations are met. • Partnered with the City to help them improve their compliance with participation in AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383 programs. • Negotiated new rates upon the exclusive hauler’s roll-out of SB 1383, adding assurance that ratepayers were paying a reasonable rate for new programs. Key HF&H Staff Laith Ezzet, Lindsey Lagos, and Jake Kaihewalu City of Anaheim General Solid Waste Consultant Services (2009-Present) Project Description & Work Performed by HF&H HF&H has provided support to the City of Anaheim with solid waste consulting services since 2009. HF&H’s work for the City includes contract monitoring support, hauler public education and outreach oversight, negotiations support; internal staff presentation and report support (staff reports, memorandums, letters, etc.); rate analysis and rate survey projects; and, AB 939, AB 341, AB 1826, SB 1383, and other regulatory compliance assistance services to the City of Anaheim. HF&H meets with the hauler monthly to review new contract implementation, reports, and service issues. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 21 of 43 Project Results • Performed rate surveys as requested by the City or relevant rates and program information. • Successfully implemented and monitored solid waste contract requirements, and HF&H has been continually available to the City of Anaheim to meet all of its solid waste consulting needs. • Prepared requested tracking forms and reporting documents for monitoring of hauler requirements, public education and outreach, and more. • Provided requested updates to City staff regarding hauler performance using hauler report data. • Supported the City of Anaheim’s rate adjustment process by obtaining and presenting industry rate information through HF&H’s wide network of industry connections. Key Staff Laith Ezzet, Haley Kunert, and Jake Kaihewalu City of Beverly Hills Solid Waste Rate Studies (2014, 2016, and 2020) Project Description The City of Beverly Hills’ Public Works Department provides automated residential refuse, recycling, and organic waste collection services. Residential processing and commercial collection services are provided by a private waste hauler. The City of Beverly Hills performs the customer billing for all customers within Beverly Hills. Customer rates include the solid waste hauler contractor rate and an administrative fee to recover related city service costs. The City of Beverly Hills remits payment to the private waste hauler for commercial collection and residential processing services. The private waste hauler is entitled to a CPI contractor rate adjustment once per year. In 2019, the City of Beverly Hills negotiated a new SB 1383- compliant franchise agreement with the private hauler, which included a significant one-time contractor rate increase. However, the City of Beverly Hills has not increased customer rates since FY 2012 and has absorbed the incremental contractor cost increases through the City of Beverly Hills’ Solid Waste Utility Fund. Work Performed by HF&H • Ensured adequate funding of the City’s Solid Waste Utility Fund. • Estimated the residential and commercial rate revenue requirements. • Estimated future contractor costs. • Projected fund reserves based on operating cost assumptions and multiple scenarios. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 22 of 43 Results • In 2014 and 2016, HF&H: − Developed a multi-year rate model and calculated the impact on Solid Waste Utility Fund reserves from estimated rate increases under two scenarios: (1) no rate increase, and (2) annual rate increases based on the consumer price index. − Compared monthly collection rates for seven other Los Angeles County cities with municipal residential solid waste collection and found the City’s rates to be higher than the median average. − The City of Beverly Hills’ goal of achieving a minimum target for the Solid Waste Utility Fund reserves was achieved under the no rate increase scenario. Thus, the City chose to maintain the residential and commercial customer rates for several years. • In 2020, HF&H assisted the City in evaluating various scenarios that would achieve the following rate setting goals: − Solid Waste Utility Fund reserves remain at or above the City’s minimum target of 50% of operating expenses throughout the modeling period of FY 2021/22 through FY 2027/28. − For each sector (residential, commercial, and alley maintenance) to be able to operate on its own and, at a minimum, break-even (zero net income or loss) by FY 2027/28. • In 2020, HF&H developed various rate models, which included a one-time customer rate increase, a five-year phase-in of customer rate increases, and an eight-year phase-in of customer rate increases. After completion of the 2020 rate study, the Beverly Hills City Council decided on a five-year phase-in of customer rate increases for residential and commercial customers starting January 1, 2021, then every July 1 for four years. Key HF&H Staff Laith Ezzet and April Hamud RECREATE Education and Outreach Services Recycling Specialists at ReCREATE are highly trained in providing professional business outreach and presenting solid waste programs in a way that is approachable and easy for business managers and staff to understand. The firm’s education and outreach department of eight full-time staff regularly meet with businesses to discuss recycling and organics recycling front- and back-of-house implementation, assess the waste stream for waiver assessments, review edible food recovery practices, discuss single-use plastics alternatives, and inform about State and local policies. Collectively, ReCREATE has visited thousands of businesses in Southern and Northern California and supports local jurisdictions with developing approaches for outreach that may include print collateral, website updates, social media content, as well as identifying priority businesses for direct contact and working collaboratively with the waste hauler to target specific problem materials. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 23 of 43 Team members also have experience working collaboratively with WM staff on outreach, local ordinance and contract implementation, MRF audits, and waste characterizations. The firm’s point-of-contact for this engagement, Natalie Lessa, is an instructor on GreenEducation.US and has developed and taught a three-part course on conducting education and outreach. She is also the Co-Chair of the California Resource Recovery Association Behavior-Based Strategies Technical Council and is the firm’s outreach specialist. Route Reviews ReCREATE has been conducting route reviews since 2020 and has completed over 65,000 inspections in over 20 jurisdictions throughout Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties on behalf of Burrtec Waste Industries, the Mojave Desert and Mountain Recycling Authority (MDMRA), and the City of Torrance. In the LA County jurisdictions, ReCREATE utilized an internally developed data collection tool that allows for streamlined recordkeeping and simplified reporting processes that satisfy CalRecycle requirements. The firm has multiple contracts with Burrtec Waste Industries, the MDMRA, and the City of Torrance that are ongoing and have been renewed on multiple occasions. ReCREATE has developed efficient and successful systems for implementing route review logistics in conjunction with jurisdiction and hauler staff that are field tested and proven, and have minimal impacts on the hauler collection operations. The firm has also developed cart tag content and design, as well as outreach and education and messaging campaigns. One innovative approach to cart tagging that we have implemented is the distribution of tags that contain positive reinforcement, in addition to traditional “Oops Tags,” as opposed to accounts only receiving tags when contamination is found. All work will be performed by ReCREATE staff that each have experience conducting thousands of route review inspections in diverse communities throughout Southern California and are accustomed to the unique challenges of working outdoors and in public. Edible Food Recovery Services ReCREATE has assisted over 30 jurisdictions Statewide with the following edible food recovery services: • Identification of Tier 1 and Tier 2 commercial edible food generators (EFGs), food recovery organizations (FROs), and Food Recovery Services (FRSs). • Inspections, Careit training, and robust technical assistance to EFGs and FROs/FRSs for compliance. • Development of edible food recovery inspection plans and reports, inclusive of recommendations for expanding capacity. • Development of print and digital educational material in accordance with Senate Bill (SB) 1383 requirements. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 24 of 43 • Edible food recovery capacity surveys and needs assessments at FROs/FRSs, estimated weight assessments at EFGs, and both city and county-wide capacity assessments. • Enforcement approach development and follow-up on Notices of Violation (NOVs). ReCREATE has been at the forefront of edible food recovery since 2021 when it supported SCS Engineers by leading the development of an Edible Food Recovery Inspection Plan for 11 cities in the SGVCOG. As part of this engagement, ReCREATE conducted six cycles of inspections, which includes over 900 edible food inspections to EFGs and 80 FRO/FRS as of February 2025. A ReCREATE team member is in the field conducting edible food recovery inspections daily, and we have solidified our internal training program, tracking and scheduling system, and usage of Careit. We are experts in training EFGs and FROs/FRSs on how to implement a compliant edible food recovery program. We also frequently train staff from other consulting firms and city departments on how to execute an edible food recovery inspection. Relevant Experience San Gabriel Valley CoG: Edible Food Recovery Program (2021 – Present) ReCREATE is currently providing 11 participating cities in the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (Azusa, Covina, Duarte, Glendora, Irwindale, La Canada Flintridge, Monrovia, Monterey Park, South Pasadena, and Temple City) with edible food recovery program technical assistance to EFGs and FROs as a subcontractor to SCS Engineers. ReCREATE Recycling Outreach Specialists, led by Natalie Lessa, are educating business managers of the edible food recovery requirements of SB 1383 during in-person inspections, tracking compliance details, and providing monthly reports on a city-by-city basis using Careit. The team was responsible for developing the tools, technology and data tracking mechanisms for this engagement and is entering its fifth contract year. ReCREATE additionally led the development of an Edible Food Recovery Inspection Plan, which served as a training guide and work plan for conducting in-person field work. Key Staff Natalie Lessa and the ReCREATE Team City of Burbank: Edible Food Recovery Program (2022 – Present) Project Description ReCREATE is in its third contract with the City of Burbank to provide business outreach ad edible food recovery program education and inspections in accordance with SB 1383. As part of this engagement, ReCREATE developed a list of Tier 1/Tier 2 EFGs, conducted a capacity planning exercise to determine overall capacity in the community to receive the edible food generated from its EFGs, and has conducted over 100 in-person edible food recovery inspections. ReCREATE is also visiting 400 food establishments to provide technical assistance with implementing the City’s recent plastic waste reduction ordinance. ReCREATE also supports the City with its MFD indoor organic waste bin delivery, plastic waste policy stakeholder engagement, school district waste sorts and more. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 25 of 43 Key Staff Natalie Lessa and the ReCREATE Team Burrtec Waste Industries (2023 – Present) Project Description Burrtec has contracted ReCREATE since 2023 to complete over 45,000 route review inspections in 22 jurisdictions located throughout Los Angeles, Torrance, and San Bernardino Counties. ReCREATE team has also distributed door hanger outreach to over 30,000 multi- family units at hundreds of properties. Key Staff Kirk Kunihiro and the ReCREATE Team Mojave Desert and Mountain Recycling Authority (2020 – Present) Project Description ReCREATE has been contracted with the Mojave Desert and Mountain Recycling Authority, a San Bernardino County JPA, since 2020 to provide a variety of services including route review inspections, door to door outreach, edible food inspections, and development of public marketing campaigns. We have inspected over 20,000 residential accounts throughout the nine member agency jurisdictions. Key Staff Kirk Kunihiro and the ReCREATE Team CLIENT REFERENCES Below please find two summary tables of references for HF&H and ReCREATE. Additional reference contact information can be provided upon request. Figure 2: HF&H Reference Table Client Name and Title City Email Address Phone Number Amy Lawrence Deputy Director of Economic Development Palm Desert alawrence@palmdesert.gov (760) 837-1664 Ayumi Takayasu Operations Manager Anaheim atakayasu@anaheim.net (714) 765-6860 Bernardo Iniguez Director of Public Works & Facilities Bell Gardens biniguez@bellgardens.org (562) 806-7770 Geoff Spencer Principal Management Analyst Yorba Linda gspencer@yorbalindaca.gov (714) 961-7100 Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 26 of 43 Client Name and Title City Email Address Phone Number Mark Ladney Senior Program Specialist, Public Works Garden Grove markla@ggcity.org (714) 741-5372 Omar Sandoval City Attorney Garden Grove omars@ggcity.org (714) 741-5368 Ryan Ramos Senior Management Analyst, Public Works & Sustainability Irvine rramos@cityofirvine.org (310) 412-5333 Figure 3: ReCREATE Reference Table Client Name and Title Client Email Address Phone Number Amber Duran Recycling Coordinator City of Burbank ADuran@burbankca.gov (818) 669-3239 John Davis Administrator Mojave Desert and Mountain Recycling Authority (San Bernardino County JPA) recyclingjpa@gmail.com (909) 797 7717 Mackenzie Bolger Program Manager San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments mbolger@sgvcog.org (626) 214-1316 Michael Heftman Director of Municipal Services Burrtec Waste Services mheftman@burrtec.com (909) 471-9134 Section C: Methodology & Understanding THE HF&H DIFFERENCE Local agencies choose HF&H for their recycling, solid waste, water, wastewater, and stormwater service needs for several key reasons, as outlined in Figure 4 below. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 27 of 43 Figure 4: Why Choose HF&H? Recent independent client satisfaction surveys have shown that 100% of respondents agreed that "HF&H staff was professional, experienced, and well-qualified." SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO PROJECT MANAGEMENT At HF&H, we believe in delivering exceptional results to our clients. Throughout the data gathering, analysis, and reporting phases, we foster a collaborative effort among three key parties: our dedicated team of HF&H consultants, our experienced engagement directors and managers, and the invaluable client staff and management. By working together seamlessly, we ensure that our clients reap the following benefits: • Qualified Expertise: Our consultants are highly qualified professionals who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their work with excellence. Their expertise guarantees a thorough understanding of your unique needs and challenges. • Clear and Professional Work Plan: We develop a clear work plan that adheres to professional standards, ensuring that our approach is structured, systematic, and effective. This plan serves as a roadmap for achieving optimal outcomes. • Effective Execution: Our consultants execute their assignments with precision and proficiency. They bring their expertise to bear, employing the best practices and strategies to deliver tangible results. • Efficient Work Monitoring: Our engagement managers take responsibility for the day- to-day monitoring of the project. They review work products, anticipate potential problems, and address concerns promptly. This diligent oversight ensures smooth progress and timely completion. Our team consists of industry-leading experts in the consulting field. Recognized Leaders We employ analytical models and solutions tailored to address each client's unique challenges and requirements. Customized Approach HF&H has built a reputation for delivering objective, fact-based solutions. Objective Solutions We are committed to conducting professional, thorough, and detailed analysis to support our findings and recommendations. Thorough Analysis We pledge to deliver high-quality services by responding quickly and personally to clients, meeting timelines, and exceeding expectations with our work products. High-Quality Services Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 28 of 43 • Ensured Accuracy and Relevance: Client staff actively participate in the process by reviewing the work products prepared by our project team. This collaborative effort helps us validate the accuracy and relevance of our findings, ensuring that the recommendations we provide are well-suited to your specific circumstances. • Consistency and Efficiency: Our engagement directors and managers play a vital role in maintaining consistency among approaches and methods. They adjust the work plan as the engagement progresses, provide adequate support to consultants, and schedule work efficiently to maximize productivity. • Thorough Evaluation: Our engagement managers thoroughly evaluate the work in progress, attend key interviews and meetings, review analysis results, and assess conclusions. They also ensure the clarity of written materials, guaranteeing that all deliverables are comprehensive and easy to understand. • Regular Progress Reporting: We understand the importance of keeping you informed. Our engagement directors and managers report progress to your management at regular intervals appropriate for the project. Our project reporting system tracks hours and progress, providing transparency and allowing us to identify any areas of concern promptly. • Alternative Approaches: HF&H proactively identifies potential concerns, should they arise, during project progress reporting. Our engagement directors and managers recommend alternative approaches to address these concerns, ensuring that we overcome challenges effectively and achieve the desired outcomes. HF&H's unwavering commitment is to provide you with exceptional service and deliverables. By fostering collaboration, expertise, and thoroughness, we ensure that your experience with us is characterized by tangible benefits and lasting success. Additionally, the seven steps that comprise HF&H’s project management approach are summarized below. A more detailed methodology can be provided to the City, if desired. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 29 of 43 Figure 5: Seven Steps to Successful Projects REQUESTED SERVICES - SCOPE OF WORK Task A: Contract Management Contract management is one of HF&H’s core practice areas. We offer a well-established methodology to ensure that the City’s solid waste programs and franchise agreements meet the expectations of the City’s stakeholders. Our approach to contract management involves partnering with City staff to clearly define the City’s goals and then addressing strategies to realize them. HF&H’s Project Director and Project Manager then prepare detailed workplans, by task and subtask, and delegate specific staff and budgeted resources. Throughout the project, we remain in communication with City staff to confirm the project’s direction and the validity of our findings. The Project Director and Project Manager are involved with all work products, ensuring the quality of our work and its adherence to the City’s needs. A.1 Transition Assistance & Support The City’s new Residential and Commercial Franchise Agreements (Franchise Agreements) contain extensive changes, including important fee payment deadlines and program and operational requirements, as well as many other requirements related to SB 1383 legislation. Our approach to providing the City with a smooth service transition is outlined below. This approach was designed to ensure the City effectively maximizes the utilization of the resources available in the new Franchise Agreements for City constituents. 1. Monitor Residential & Commercial Implementation Plan and Schedule and AB 341/AB 1826/SB 1383 Implementation Plans – The City will be undergoing two transitions simultaneously. Therefore, it is imperative to follow a comprehensive implementation plan and schedule for a successful transition. Both VVS and WM were required to submit an implementation plan and schedule, which were incorporated into the new Franchise Agreements. HF&H understands that some items outlined in the implementation plans 1. Meet with Client to define goals of project 2. Finalize approach, responsibilities, and schedule with Client 3. Follow the workplan and monitor progress 4. Update Client on our progress 5. Review preliminary findings with Client and any previously agreed- upon third-parties 6. Document results for Client review 7. Project manager monitors progress, documents sources of findings, and ensures client satisfaction Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 30 of 43 submitted by VVS and WM require immediate implementation upon contract award to ensure timelines are achieved. HF&H will review both implementation plans and meet and confer with City staff to obtain a status update on implementation tasks that have been completed to date (July 1, 2025). Based on this information, HF&H will draft a comprehensive transition plan for both residential and commercial service transitions, outlining the remaining tasks to be completed, responsible parties, and completion dates. To accomplish this task, HF&H will: o Track the residential and commercial implementation plans and schedules included within Exhibit 6 and Exhibit 7 of each Franchise Agreement, respectively. o Develop a comprehensive transition plan reflective of outstanding items for successful residential and commercial transition. o Monitor transition task completion and discuss issues as they arise during virtual monthly meetings with the haulers and City staff (included in Task A.2.2). 2. Review and Revise Public Outreach Materials – Thoughtful and accurate public education and outreach is a hallmark for successful transitions. Article 6.3 of both Franchise Agreements outline each hauler’s responsibilities for customer outreach and education, which include: initial mailings, instructional packets, container labels and instructions, annual brochures/mailers, billing inserts, corrective action notices, community workshops, and a dedicated website page for City-specific information, all of which will need to be developed by VVS and/or WM. HF&H will review drafts of public education and outreach materials proposed by VVS and WM for accuracy and consistency with the provisions of the Franchise Agreements. 3. Review Reporting Forms and Customer Billing Formats – The City’s Franchise Agreements require the submittal of quarterly or monthly, respectively, and annual reports. In order to ensure proper reporting of the information required in the Franchise Agreements and SB 1383, HF&H will review the residential and commercial reporting forms for consistency with each set of agreement requirements. Additionally, the Franchise Agreements require VVS and WM to provide residential and commercial billing services for the City. HF&H will review the proposed format for customer invoices for consistency with each set of Franchise Agreement requirements. 4. Customer Service Support during Transition Period – As needed, and upon City request, HF&H will connect with customers via email or phone call (depending on the customer’s preference) to gather information, provide accurate residential and/or commercial service information, and deliver a summary to the City. HF&H will maintain and provide a customer service log detailing all follow-up activities to the City on a monthly basis. A.2 Administration of the City’s Solid Waste Franchise Agreements HF&H has developed contract management monitoring tools and mechanisms to ensure that the City’s solid waste Franchise Agreements are implemented successfully, and that the City Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 31 of 43 obtains the full value of the services that it has contracted for. HF&H will perform the contract monitoring and franchise management activities described below. 1. Create a List of Franchise Agreement Requirements and Due Dates – Through HF&H’s ongoing contract management engagements, we have found success in preparing a list of contract requirements and due dates to ensure the City receives full advantage of the programs outlined in the Franchise Agreements. We will utilize our prepared tools for tracking contract requirements and hauler compliance for the City, which have also been successfully implemented in other jurisdictions, including Inglewood, Bell Gardens, Garden Grove, Yorba Linda, Palm Desert, and Anaheim. Gaining a thorough understanding of the updated Franchise Agreements by establishing an easy to read document outlining deliverables for VVS and WM will enable the City to efficiently perform and streamline their solid waste and recycling contract oversight duties. 2. Facilitate Meetings with City and Haulers – HF&H attends regularly scheduled and as- needed meetings for all contract management clients with the meeting frequency based on the individual needs of each client. We prepare meeting agendas and documents, draft meeting minutes, and follow up on intended meeting results. To ensure a smooth transition for the City, HF&H highly recommends separate, virtual, monthly franchise meetings with the haulers for the first year of the new Franchise Agreements. Upon City request, franchise meetings may be conducted in person, pending budget availability. While the City may reevaluate meeting frequency anytime, HF&H encourages reevaluation be conducted no sooner than the one-year anniversary of the Franchise Agreements on September 1, 2026. Our experience working with various jurisdictions and assisting with subsequent contract matters allows us to understand and provide customized solutions. HF&H recognizes the City’s unique relationship with their haulers and potential challenges related to diversion programs and generator outreach. Through this engagement, HF&H will: o Facilitate separate one-hour, virtual monthly meetings with the City and VVS and WM representatives until September 1, 2026. In August 2026, HF&H would meet and confer with the City on the desired frequency of meetings after September 2026. o Review program participation levels and public education and outreach materials, provide recommendations to increase participation or enhance current programming, and discuss reported findings and recovered organic waste procurement progress. o Monitor residential and commercial hauler’s overall compliance with Franchise Agreement requirements. o Perform additional analysis on the information provided or gathered through the other scope of work Tasks. o Provide legislative and regulatory updates and discuss significant items. 3. Review Residential and Commercial Hauler Reports - HF&H recognizes the different residential and commercial reporting requirements outlined in Section 8.3 of both Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 32 of 43 Franchise Agreements and is familiar with working with more than one hauler in a jurisdiction. As part of our periodic meetings with our contract management clients, we track and analyze hauler reports including tonnage reports, customer counts, and program participation, to monitor program success and identify possible issues in a timely manner. Our review of hauler tonnage, gross receipts and fee reports sometimes indicate a need for further review. Early review minimizes potential issues. To perform this task, HF&H will: o On a quarterly basis, conduct a desktop review of residential reports. o On a monthly basis, conduct a desktop review of commercial reports. o On an annual basis, review both residential and commercial annual reports. o Identify potential irregularities and/or trends of the data submitted by each hauler. o Review and track mandatory commercial recycling and organic waste program participation levels in alignment with AB 341, AB 1826, and SB 1383. o Discuss pertinent solid waste issues, present findings, and review general contract compliance. 4. Analyze State Compliance and Reports – State reports play a key role by gauging compliance with solid waste and recycling regulations and providing a detailed analysis of how well programs are adhering to State mandates. Through consistent engagement in reviewing solid waste compliance and associated reports, the City can better assess the effectiveness of waste management strategies, identify compliance gaps, and ensure that waste diversion and recycling goals are being met. The analysis of overall program compliance helps highlight trends, uncover areas needing improvement, and ensure that entities are following required protocols. HF&H has assisted many jurisdictions throughout the State with completing various State and local reporting requirements that range from monitoring compliance with various solid waste legislation to reviewing the methodology for each facility’s allocation of residual disposal tonnages to different jurisdictions and subsequently comparing the data to historical disposal trends. We have also assisted jurisdictions in evaluating reports for consistency with SB 1383 and Franchise Agreement compliance. Some examples of reporting and State compliance analysis that HF&H may support include but are not limited to the following: o Electronic Annual Report (EAR) assistance (including disposal modifications) o SB 1383 route review and methodology evaluation o Contamination monitoring records assessment o Form 303 support o Per capita calculations to determine City’s AB 939 compliance o Disposal report reconciliation support Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 33 of 43 Results of reviews and/or analyses may be discussed during the monthly franchise meetings with the City and haulers to determine next steps and collaborate on solutions if gaps are identified. By consistently analyzing State compliance and reporting, stakeholders can make informed decisions and work toward enhancing program outcomes while staying aligned with State environmental goals. HF&H shall meet and confer with the City prior to implementation to determine the level of support needed and will operate within the allocated budget. 5. Verify Annual Hauler Rate Adjustment Requests – HF&H has assisted other State jurisdictions with solid waste rate adjustments and rate component analyses, including recent projects completed by our SoCal project team for the Cities of Inglewood, Bell Gardens, Garden Grove, Fullerton, Placentia, Seal Beach, Yorba Linda, and San Bernardino County. Our reviews have identified unapproved ancillary charges and rate adjustment calculation errors for multiple clients. The majority of rate adjustment calculation errors that HF&H finds during our reviews for clients are either clerical or a misunderstanding of the rate adjustment methodology. Compounded annually, even small errors in the calculation of customer solid waste rates can potentially have long- lasting effects. HF&H will review the accuracy of the residential and commercial rate adjustment request calculations in accordance with the allowable annual adjustments as outlined in Article 10 of both the Franchise Agreements and document recommended adjustments to the hauler submittal(s), if applicable. Following our review, HF&H will send an email to the City containing the reviewed version of both haulers’ submitted files or recalculations, if necessary. As part of our standard practice, HF&H ensures that the correct United States Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) indices are applied and verifies that accurate and active indices are used. Additionally, HF&H will coordinate with the City and haulers to ensure the March 31 rate adjustment request submission deadline is followed and the establishment of adjusted residential and commercial rates are effective July 1 annually. Upon City request, HF&H can be available to assess and analyze any extraordinary rate adjustment requests submitted by the haulers for accuracy and reasonableness. When contractors request extraordinary rate adjustments, we assist our clients by reviewing such requests to determine the appropriate adjustment to rates, if any, is warranted based on the Franchise Agreement language. HF&H will assess the level of support required for the review and meet and confer with City to determine the next strategic steps for the City within the allocated budget. Task B: SB 1383 Compliance B.1 Business Outreach and Education (ReCREATE Task) The HF&H Team (HF&H and ReCREATE) will leverage our experience of visiting thousands of commercial customers to provide outreach to businesses, which was executed using community-based social marketing techniques and the highest level of professionalism. The team will visit 100 commercial customers annually to understand their unique challenges to implementing recycling and organics recycling, share helpful strategies to incorporate changes, gather pertinent information for recordkeeping, and provide follow-up information via email. The outreach team will be led by Natalie Lessa, who is an education and outreach instructor on GreenEducation.US that has received advanced training in community-based social marketing. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 34 of 43 The team will also draw on our experience conducting communitywide behavior change pilot programs and outreach campaigns to identify the unique goals and strategies of the City prior to beginning outreach. During a kick-off call, the team will discuss the following initial outreach tasks: • Assistance to the City in identifying priority businesses to visit • Provision of feedback on City and/or hauler developed outreach material • Identification of data points to be developed into site visit record form • Discussion on components of high-level outreach plan A high-level outreach plan will be developed in the form of a five-page outline that will include the following: • Key points-of-contact and communication channels • Established outreach goals and objectives • Timeline and key milestones of outreach • Approach for conducting outreach (number of scheduling attempts, follow-up, etc.) • Identified software program 1 for tracking site visit records • Outreach material to be provided both in-person and digitally as email follow up to the business • List of businesses to receive outreach Potential outreach topics may include the following: • Available recycling, organics and trash services provided by the haulers • Identification of contamination through visual waste audits and real time training on how to properly source separate material into each waste stream • Implementation support of AB 827, AB 341, AB 1826, and/or SB 1383 1 The team is available to utilize City or hauler-provided software programs for tracking outreach progress and recording data collected during the site visit. The HF&H Team has developed a software program that can be used to track outreach efforts and collect site visit report data at an additional cost. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 35 of 43 During site visits, Recycling Specialists will meet with the store manager and key staff to share information, provide print materials made available by the City and/or hauler, and collect information for recordkeeping in the City or hauler-provided app. The HF&H Team is available to provide a deeper level of business outreach, if desired by the City, at an additional cost, which can include waiver assessments, right-sizing support, or other more in-depth services for the City. The HF&H Team is also available to provide more than 100 commercial site visits annually at additional cost. Summary of Deliverables to be Provided • One 5-page outreach plan detailing goals, approach, and key milestones of outreach • Up to 100 in-person commercial site visits annually (includes one follow-up email to business to provide additional resources or outreach material) • Feedback on City and/or hauler developed outreach material • One Excel spreadsheet report containing results of completed business site visit • One 2-page report of key findings and recommended next steps B.2 Route Reviews and Field Inspections (ReCREATE Task) The HF&H Team will inspect a total of 1,500 residential single-family accounts (10% of the approximately 15,000 total). One completed inspection is defined as the inspection of one account that has at least one cart/stream set out with material for collection at the time of inspection. Every cart/stream that is set out at an address will be inspected, though all three streams of the account do not need to be set out to be considered a completed inspection. All hauler routes will be inspected. ReCREATE will assist the City in identifying and selecting accounts to include for inspection or provide strategies for randomization of reviews. ReCREATE will also coordinate with the hauler to schedule fieldwork in a manner that minimizes disruption to normal collection operations. The HF&H Team is available to utilize City or hauler-provided software programs for conducting route reviews. If desired by the City, for an additional cost, the HF&H Team will provide and use a custom data collection tool to complete inspections. The HF&H Team has developed a software program that can be used to track route review efforts, collect route review data, and provide the City with reports. If the City chooses to use the HF&H Team ’s app, the following details apply. Records provided to the City will contain all information required by SB 1383 container contamination monitoring specifications: • Address and route number of generator • Identification of inspector Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 36 of 43 • Date of inspection • Contamination observations including specific contaminant types • Photos of container contents • Indication of issuance of a notice Reports will be produced that comply with the annual contamination monitoring requirements of SB 1383. Quality Control of Data The quality control check includes the following: • Task lead regularly conducting a review of randomly selected entries at a minimum of 10 accounts per every 100 inspected. • Checking the account’s data entries to ensure that form fields have been completed fully and accurately • Review of photos to ensure clear visibility of noted contamination • Cross reference between photos, completed tags, and contamination noted These quality control reviews will ensure that inspections are executed consistently, and high levels of accuracy are maintained throughout the duration of the project. Summary of Deliverables to be Provided • 1,500 completed residential single family account route review audits • If the City uses the HF&H Team’s custom app: o One Excel spreadsheet and PDF report that includes records of contamination inspections o One PDF cart tag file with photos, if desired, to be made available to the City. B.3 Edible Food Recovery (ReCREATE Task) This subtask includes the execution of in-person edible food recovery inspections using Careit software. The HF&H Team has carried out over 2,000 edible food recovery inspections using Careit and is highly trained in providing training to businesses for compliance with SB 1383. The HF&H Team will meet with City-identified EFGs twice annually to provide robust outreach on how to establish a successful, compliant food recovery program. Drawing on the HF&H Team’s experience conducting over 80 site visits to food recovery organizations in the San Gabriel Valley, prior to conducting inspections, the HF&H Team will review and confirm the City’s list of FROs that are able to accept food from generators in the City and create a table to share with EFGs during site visits. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 37 of 43 The consultant will also provide a handout for distribution to EFGs during site visits that provides an easy way to keep records of food donations in compliance with SB 1383. Inspections include the following: • Review of program and confirmation of compliance with Section 18991.3 and 18991.4 • Hand delivery of educational information and resources made available by the City • Expert staff training and recommendations on how to establish a food donation program • One follow up email to EFGs to notify of compliance status and provide resources • Upload of inspection photos and inspection notes to a digital program Careit and Chowmatch are two programs that are available to EFGs to use, free of charge, and will be promoted during inspections as another resource for implementation. Careit will be utilized for inspection recordkeeping as part of this engagement, which will keep all edible food records in one centralized, cloud-based location that the City or hauler staff can access at any time. Chowmatch may also be acquired if the City elects to facilitate in the collection and distribution of food from EFGs. Summary of Deliverables to be Provided • One review and updated List of Tier 1 & Tier 2 EFGs and FROs operating in Diamond Bar • One EFG food weight tracker form • Up to twenty-six (26) completed site visits and/or inspections of Tier 1 and Tier 2 EFGs (2 visits annually) • Two Excel spreadsheet reports of all inspections conducted, provided bi-annually, that include the following: o The number of EFGs located in Diamond Bar and an explanation of compliance status o The number of EFGs that received educational information and the type of education and outreach provided o Updated EFG contact information o Estimated pounds of food disposed and donated B.4 SB 1383 ROWP Procurement Support Effective January 1, 2022, SB 1383 requires jurisdictions to annually procure a quantity of recovered organic waste products (ROWP). The quantity is calculated by multiplying the per capita procurement target by the City’s 2021 estimated population (0.08 ROWP tons x 56,717 = 4,537 ROWP tons). As AB 1985’s phased in SB 1383 organic waste procurement Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 38 of 43 requirements expired in 2024, the City is now required to procure 100% of the City’s annual ROWP target of 4,537 ROWP tons. Through the City’s new Franchise Agreements, VVS, the City’s residential hauler, is required to procure 60% of the annual procurement target of 2,722 ROWP tons and WM, the City’s commercial hauler, is required to procure 40% or 1,815 ROWP tons. To assist the City’s compliance with SB 1383, HF&H will monitor both haulers’ progress towards the City’s ROWP annual target on a quarterly basis. CalRecycle reevaluates each jurisdiction’s annual procurement target every five years and the City’s current procurement target expires on December 31, 2026. HF&H will monitor new procurement targets released by CalRecycle and update the City on the new procurement target, if needed. Task C: Senate Bill (SB) 54 Compliance SB 54 will have profound impacts on the types of packaging materials generated by producers, the recyclability and compostability of covered material categories, and potential opportunities for funding for local jurisdiction collection systems. This additional insight will enable HF&H to advise the City on best management practices regarding material bans implementation, including stakeholder education, provide recommendations for citywide material bans to improve recyclability, and monitor haulers’ SB 54 compliance. Considering the SB 54 regulations are not complete, HF&H’s support may include, but is not limited to: • Monitoring ongoing updates with SB 54 regulations and implementation • Providing legislative updates regarding SB 54 and other legislation (as applicable) including conducting presentations to stakeholders • Analyzing current baseline conditions to determine hauler compliance with SB 54, once regulations are finalized • Analyzing current City policies in relation to SB 54 and determine whether adjustments are recommended, once regulations are finalized • Developing strategies for SB 54 compliance as new information is presented HF&H recognizes that there are many uncertainties with local implementation of SB 54. The City and HF&H will meet and confer once the SB 54 regulations have been finalized to determine the City’s needs to comply with and take full advantage of the SB 54 regulations. Additional support may include more extensive agreement amendments and program development that cannot be determined before the regulations have been finalized. Additional budgetary compensation will need to be considered. Optional Tasks Not Requested in the RFP Assist City with JACE Compliance Evaluation (Only if needed during term of Consulting Services Agreement) Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 39 of 43 As a part of our on-going contract monitoring projects, HF&H assists clients with their annual LAMD CalRecycle site visits and phone calls. Additionally, HF&H is available to support the City in working with CalRecycle's JACE team evaluations, which began in 2024. Article 15 of SB 1383 outlines enforcement oversight provisions whereby CalRecycle evaluates a jurisdiction’s compliance with SB 1383 requirements. HF&H has assisted the cities of Vacaville, Inglewood, Redondo Beach, Bell, and Huntington Beach with their JACE compliance evaluations. Our experience supporting other jurisdictions with their compliance evaluations will allow us to prepare the City for the compliance evaluation. As this task has not been requested by CalRecycle at this time, we are not incorporating the cost into the annual base cost of service, but recommend a contingency be available for the additional support that will be needed to be accessible and develop responses to CalRecycle when a CalRecycle JACE representative contacts the City. We estimate the JACE compliance review will take a minimum of six months to over a year to complete. Performance Audit Support Section 8.2.6 of the City’s new Franchise Agreements provides for hauler-funded triennial audits. The first audit is to be performed in 2027 and will be based on data from the start of the agreements through calendar year 2026. The Contractors must reimburse the City’s audit costs, and the reimbursement amounts are $90,000 each for the audits to be performed in 2027 per Section 8.2.6 of the Franchise Agreements. To ensure ratepayers obtain the full benefit of this agreement option, we can scope our services to the reimbursement amount. If the City desires to reduce the level of testing, we can customize our scope accordingly. The scope of the audits is to be determined by the City. Example objectives are included below: • Billing. The Contractors are responsible for billing for all collection services under Section 6.1 of the Franchise Agreements. Our team can review customer billings to ensure they align with the approved rate schedule. • Vehicles. Collection vehicles used within the City are not to be older than 2-years upon initiation of services under the Franchise Agreements per Section 4.2.2.A. We can verify vehicles comply with age requirements. • City Fees. The haulers are required to pay to the City franchise fees, CalRecycle compliance fees, and a one-time contracting fee, per Article 7 of the Franchise Agreements. We can review for appropriate payments. • Tonnage. HF&H can reconcile the tons reported to the City as disposed to third party disposal reports. Utilization of HF&H Reporting and Dashboard HF&H has developed tools for internal fee review, programmatic tracking, and outreach monitoring. If the City is interested, we can implement our firm’s Strategic Initiative for Knowledge Integration to create reports using business intelligence software. This will establish a dynamic City report database, where City staff can view summary reports on tonnage and diversion, generator compliance, contamination monitoring, and other data collected from hauler reports in real-time through a custom online dashboard. The ability for Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 40 of 43 comprehensive comparison of local, regional, and State data provides the City valuable context and insights for informed decision-making. We recently implemented new reporting forms for the cities of Inglewood, Bell Gardens, Gardena, Garden Grove, Anaheim, and Yorba Linda that monitor complaints and inquiries over time. These forms have allowed us to identify areas of improvement, while also highlighting other areas of concern that may be more minor in nature when analyzing the full scope of activity across the entire customer base. For the City of San Leandro, HF&H performed a detailed analysis of reporting data from three separate and privately owned transfer and processing facilities located within the city’s limits, during which we discovered over 100,000 tons of disposal was inaccurately allocated to the City of San Leandro. Enhanced SB 1383 Compliance Support The SB 1383 compliance services outlined in the RFP is not inclusive of all requirements needed for full compliance with SB 1383. We would be happy to meet with the City to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the level of support HF&H can provide the City regarding the enhanced SB 1383 services listed below. Should the City decide to move forward with any of the enhanced services, HF&H will meet and confer with the City prior to implementation. SB 1383 Enforcement Plan and Best Management Strategies Article 14 of SB 1383 outlines a jurisdiction’s enforcement responsibilities effective January 1, 2024. SB 1383 prescribes that a jurisdiction must keep records of and issue a Notice of Violation to parties who are non-compliant with SB 1383. For a successful enforcement plan, development of a framework and procedures for all stakeholders is key, which includes consistency with the City’s municipal code. SB 1383 Implementation Record Planning and Support Services Jurisdictions have responsibilities under SB 1383 to monitor and report on multiple levels of programming, collection services, compliance monitoring, edible food recovery, processing capacity, procurement, and more. Development and upkeep of the City’s Implementation Record requires ongoing coordination with various stakeholders and aggregating and organizing data within a central platform that can be accessible to CalRecycle within ten business days of a request. Capacity Planning Reporting due August 1, 2029 Article 11 of SB 1383 outlines organic waste recycling capacity planning requirements, which consist of identifying existing or planned infrastructure for organic waste recycling and edible food recovery for maximum recovery. This data is reported to CalRecycle by counties, in coordination with local agencies, on a five-year cycle. The most recent capacity planning report was due on August 1, 2024 and the next reporting period falls outside of the service term requested by the City. Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 41 of 43 Section D: Cost for Services GENERAL We will perform the scope of work based on time and materials. The estimated cost is $244,000 for base year 1 and $214,000 for base year 2. We would be happy to discuss adding any of the optional services prior to finalization of this Consulting Services Agreement. The estimated cost for completion of Tasks A through C for the proposed period is as follows for the proposed term of two years, with 2 optional years: The workplans in Attachment D itemize hours by task and staff classification. Hours may be shifted amongst tasks and between years to achieve the City’s goals for the requested services. Key assumptions included in the fee estimates include the following: • Virtual franchise management meetings with the City and haulers • Quarterly residential franchise management meetings in Year 2 • Performance of Task 1 Transition Assistance only in Year 1 (note that Supplemental Transition Assistance is included as Task 1.g in Year 2 , if needed) The City may identify solid waste and recycling items that require HF&H’s assistance, but were not considered in the original scope of work, and may want to consider an additional annual contingency of $10,000 to $15,000 for use at City direction only. Additionally, we would be happy to meet and confer with the City if there is interest in updating the scope to include any of the optional tasks described in this proposal, such as JACE assistance, audit support, HF&H report template development, or enhanced SB 1383 compliance support. HOURLY RATES Hourly ranges for professional and administrative personnel through June 30, 2026 are as follows and will be adjusted by 3.5% each July 1. Total Fee Estimate for FY 2025-29 Contract Year Cost Year 1 (July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026)$244,000 Year 2 (July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027)$214,000 Total Estimate for Years 1-2 $458,000 Estimate for Optional Years Year 3 (July 1, 2027 to June 30, 2028) $222,000 Year 4 (July 1, 2028 to June 30, 2029)$229,000 Total Estimate for Years 3-4 $451,000 Total Estimate for Years 1-4 $909,000 Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 42 of 43 Figure 6: Schedule of Hourly Rates (FY 2025-26) Position Rate Executive $330 - $370 Senior Project Manager $305 - $325 Project Manager $275 - $295 Senior Associate $225 - $270 Associate Analyst $185 - $215 Assistant Analyst $170 - $180 Administrative Staff $135 - $170 DIRECT EXPENSES Standard charges for common direct expenses are as follows: Automobile Travel ............................................... Prevailing IRS mileage rate Postage, travel, and other out of pocket costs .............................. Actual Cost Subcontractors ............................................................. Actual Cost + 10% INVOICES AND PAYMENT FOR SERVICES Our time reporting and billing system has certain standard formats that are designed to provide our clients with a detailed invoice of the time and charges associated with their engagement and we typically discuss these with our clients at our kick-off meeting. We are also pleased to provide our clients with a custom invoice format, but we will have to bill the client for time spent conforming our invoices to their unique requirements. Billings for professional services and charges are submitted every month, in order that our clients can more closely monitor our services. Section E: Insurance HF&H understands the proof of insurance requirements addressed in the Consulting Services Agreement of this Request for Proposal and will obtain the required insurance coverage prior to entering into an agreement with the City. See Attachment C for a sample Certificate of Insurance that lists our lines of coverage as well as each line’s limits. Section F: Consulting Services Agreement HF&H proposes making the following edits to the City’s Consulting Services Agreement. 1. Please see the single word insertion in Section 9.2 below. (2) Any and all claims arising out of Consultant’s negligent performance of work hereunder or its failure to comply with any of its obligations contained in this Agreement, regardless of City’s passive negligence, but excepting such loss or damage which is caused by the sole active negligence or willful misconduct of the City. Should City in its sole discretion find Consultant’s legal counsel unacceptable, then Consultant shall reimburse the City its costs of defense, including without limitation reasonable attorneys’ fees, expert fees and all other costs and fees of litigation. The Consultant shall promptly p0ay Tara Reyes February 28, 2025 Page 43 of 43 any final judgement rendered against he Indemnitees. It is expressly understood and agreed that the foregoing provisions are intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the law of the State of California and will survive termination of this Agreement. Except for Indemnitees, this Agreement shall not be construed to extend to any third party indemnification rights of any kind. 2. Please remove Section 20. 20. Liquidated Damages. Consultant shall pay City, or have withheld from monies due it, as liquidated damages, the sum of _____Dollars ($___) per day for each and every calendar day’s delay in finishing the work within the time specified, including any written extensions which may be granted, in writing, in accordance with this Agreement. [Optional, include in situations in which untimely delivery of a product or service would interfere with City’s ability to serve its constituents. Must have Section 18 and 19 to include.] * * * * * Thank you for considering our proposal to work with the City. We look forward to the opportunity to create a successful partnership with the City of Diamond Bar. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or if you require any additional information. I can be reached directly at (949) 251-8902 or lezzet@hfh-consultants.com. Sincerely, Laith B. Ezzet, CMC Senior Vice President Attachments: A. Key Staff Resumes B. Client Reference Letters C. Sample Certificate of Insurance D. Year 1 and 2 Workplans E. ReCREATE Work Samples ATTACHMENT A Key Staff Resumes Range of Experience Laith Ezzet has over 30 years of experience in integrated waste management program planning and funding, solid waste collection operations, recycling and yardwaste programs, procurement and negotiation of solid waste services contracts, fee studies, waste diversion studies, community involvement and public outreach, regulatory policy, solid waste and recycling facility feasibility studies, service cost tracking, rate setting, landfill funding, cost-benefit analysis, efficiency studies, financial and economic modeling, industry surveys, and statistical market research. HF&H has negotiated solid waste agreements valued at over a billion dollars. Recent Results •Orange County Cities - Assisting the cities of Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Brea, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Placentia, Seal Beach, Yorba Linda and others to update their sold waste programs, contracts, and/or ordinances to comply with the requirements of SB 1383 and/or mandatory commercial organics and recycling requirements. •City of Santa Ana – Managing a competitive proposal process for residential and commercial services (in process). •North Orange County Cities – Assisted four cities that contract with Republic Services to negotiate commercial organics program rates and terms to comply with AB 1826, including a rebalancing mechanism to adjust rates after 2020 once actual participation levels are known. •City of Manhattan Beach – Managing a competitive RFP process for a new solid waste agreement that will comply with SB 1383 requirements (in process). Expertise •Solid Waste Rates and Operations Analysis •Procurements and Negotiations •Transfer, MRF, Disposal, and Organics Facilities •Program Planning and Funding •Auditing and Reporting •Refuse Vehicle Impact Studies Laith Ezzet, CMC Senior Vice President Southern California Office Historical Experience Years of Experience: 30+ Clients: 156 Engagements: 757 Articles and Speeches: 35 Education M.B.A., Tuck School of Business Administration at Dartmouth College M.B.A., Course Work at the London Business School A.B., Cum Laude, Economics, Occidental College Professional License Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Institute of Management Consultants USA Professional History HF&H Consultants, LLC: 1991 to present Professional Organizations Past Director and Chapter Treasurer, California Resource Recovery Association (CRRA) Corporate Director, Southern CA Chapter, Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Institute of Management Consultants (IMC) Contact Information (949)251-8902 lezzet@hfh-consultants.com Range of Experience Haley Kunert is a Project Manager with HF&H. Haley has two years of experience in sustainability services, gained while attending the University of California San Diego and over seven years with HF&H Consultants. She currently assists with SB 1383 planning and implementation, managing solid waste franchise agreements, legislative compliance and diversion monitoring, audit services, solid waste rate reviews, contract negotiation services, contract procurements and RFPs, valuation models, program implementation services, grant management, CalRecycle annual reporting, community public education and outreach, and conducting solid waste rate studies. Haley is the project manager for our contract services and legislative compliance work for the cities of Inglewood, Garden Grove, Palm Desert, and Yorba Linda. Her work on these projects includes presentations to Council and community members, monitoring hauler contract compliance, tracking legislative compliance, preparing data and information requests for CalRecycle, rate adjustment reviews, preparation or review of the EAR, and development of solid waste agreements and ordinances. Haley assists in the development and review of public education and outreach. Recent Engagements •8 Orange County Republic Cities (Anaheim, Brea, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Placentia, Seal Beach, Yorba Linda) – SB 1383 Planning and Negotiations •City of Garden Grove – Legislative Compliance Tracking and Monitoring •City of Yorba Linda – Legislative Compliance Tracking and Monitoring •City of Palm Desert – Program Monitoring & Negotiations for SB 1383 •City of Inglewood – Monitoring & Negotiations for SB 1383 •City of Anaheim – SB 1383 Implementation Planning and Ongoing Support Expertise •SB 1383 Compliance •Ordinance Development •CalRecycle Liaison Assistance •Contract Management •Community Engagement •Negotiations Assistance Recent Clients Haley Kunert Senior Project Manager Historical Experience Years of Experience: 9 Clients Served: 38 Past Engagements: 142 Education B.S., Environmental Systems, University of California San Diego, La Jolla Certificate in Sustainability and Behavior Change, University of California San Diego Extension Program Professional History HF&H Consultants, LLC: 2015 to present University of California San Diego: HDH – Sustainability Department: 2013 to 2015 Professional Organizations Board of Directors – Southern California Waste Management Forum (2017-2020) Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Young Professional Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Southern California Chapter - Board of Directors Representative (2019-present) Awards: 2022 SWANA Young Professional of the Year – Discretionary Region Contact Information (949)251-0930 hkunert@hfh-consultants.com Karla Del Rosario Associate Analyst Range of Experience Karla Del Rosario is a Senior Associate with HF&H and brings to the firm eight years of experience in solid waste and recycling contract compliance, concise reporting, and successful diversion program development and implementation. Karla currently assists with profiling the city’s franchise agreements to ensure hauler compliance (collection service, reporting, fee payments, rate structure, diversion performance, etc.), SB 1383 planning and implementation, strategic legislative planning, effective program development, and hauler transition assistance. Prior to her tenure at HF&H, Karla served as a Senior Environmental Specialist with the City of Oceanside, where she synthesized data and results to aid city management pursue effective solid waste and recycling projects and goals, in addition to performing quality control reviews to improve data tracking and identify areas of concern. Karla also assisted in expanding litter abatement resources and improved re-use and donation opportunities through a cleanup campaign in collaboration with various city departments, the franchise hauler, and local organizations. While at CR&R Incorporated, Karla served as a key facilitator during the re-negotiation and development of a new Solid Waste and Recycling Agreement for the City of Laguna Niguel. She coordinated the roll out of the city’s residential organics recycling program in 2019, which included the development of a how-to recycle food scraps video. In addition to developing strategic partnerships with local leaders and civic groups, Karla also organized various stream and sector specific waste characterizations to monitor contamination levels and tracked nearly 100% AB 341 and AB 1826 compliance city-wide. Expertise •Ongoing Contract Management & Transition Assistance •SB 1383/Legislative Planning and Compliance •Public Education & Outreach Campaigns •Diversion Program Development & Implementation RECENT CLIENTS Karla Del Rosario Senior Associate Southern California Office Historical Experience Years of Experience: 8 Clients Served: 6 Past Engagements: 6 Education B.A., E nvironmental Studies, minor in Biology – University of California, Santa Cruz Professional History HF&H Consultants, LLC – Senior Associate: May 2022 to present City of Oceanside – Senior Environmental Specialist: April 2021 to December 2021 CR&R Incorporated – Sustainability Analyst (most recent role): March 2016 to March 2021 Professional Organizations Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Contact Information (949)409-6430 kdelrosario@hfh-consultants.com Range of Experience April Hamud, Sr. Project Manager, provides solid waste consulting services to cities and counties throughout Southern California. Since 2011, Ms. Hamud has assisted municipal agencies with contracting assistance, contract monitoring, financial modeling, and rate studies. April has managed and administered Used Oil Program Block Grants for several Southern California jurisdictions, including the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) and the City of Bell Gardens. Since 2011, April has coordinated, managed, and staffed used oil filter exchange events for the CVAG. In preparation for these events, April coordinates all public education which includes the design of flyers, event announcements on cable television, radio, websites, newspapers, and electronic billboards; prepares all conditional use permits and insurance requirements; manages the purchase of recycled-content promotional items; and coordinates the events with certified used oil collection centers. In addition to the exchange events, April coordinated with three school districts to promote an annual student drawing contest. Each year, the winning flyer was used as the promotional campaign flyer for the used oil events. In assisting jurisdictions with Used Oil Payment Program administration, April gathers the information necessary to complete the applications and annual reports required by CalRecycle to ensure receipt of grant monies. This information includes used oil and filters collected at certified used oil collection centers, estimated and actual annual expenditures, documentation of public education and outreach activities, and documentation of certified used oil collection center inspections. Recent Results • CVAG – April assisted in the consistent collection of over 1,100 oil filters per year at the CVAG used oil filter exchange events from FY 2011-12 through FY 2018-19 • City of Bell Gardens – Assisted City in the planning and staffing of annual used oil events in 2017 Expertise • Procurements/Negotiations • Contract Development & Management • Financial Modeling • Solid Waste Legislative Compliance • Solid Waste Rate Studies • Used Oil Grant Administration Recent Clients April Hamud Sr. Project Manager Southern California Office Historical Experience Years of Experience: 13 Clients Served: 60+ Past Engagements: 200+ Speeches: 9 Education B.S., Mathematics, University of CA, Riverside M.A., Economics, Cal State Fullerton Professional History HF&H Consultants, LLC: 2011 to present Professional Organizations Young Professional (YP) Representative of Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Southern California Founding Chapter 2016-2019 Contact Information (949) 251-8586 AHamud@hfh-consultants.com NATALIE LESSA PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS • Excellent track record of completing projects on time and within budget for local jurisdiction clients, including counties, JPAs, and cities, and private and nonprofit clients •Manages firm’s edible food recovery projects as a prime and subconsultant, oversees client deliverables and relations, serves as liaison to CalRecycle for edible food recovery program elements •Conducts high-level education and outreach strategy planning, edible food recovery plan and approach development, single-use plastics reduction policy development, communitywide stakeholder engagement,and education and outreach development (website, social media, print, etc.) •Oversees data tracking and reporting for approximately 2,000 inspection entries • Leads a 9-person inspection team and provides staff training •Assisted with the waste hauler procurement evaluation and negotiation process for the cities of Rancho Cordova, Santa Rosa, Half Moon Bay, San Bernardino and Town of Windsor •Created Zero Waste Plans for the City of Santa Monica, City of Carlsbad and Town of Corte Madera •Wrote multiple FEMA-approved disaster debris management plans for local jurisdictions •Successfully assisted the City of Rancho Cordova with implementing a City facility three-stream program, managed all CalRecycle grants and reporting, franchised waste hauler contracts and fees, and updated ordinances for AB 341/1826 and CalGREEN as an in-house part-time consultant •Performed project manager duties for the Alameda County General Services Agency: Green Child Care Program through a fellowship landfill grant program which included grant application writing, grant tracking and reporting, and program implementation •Increased the reach of the program by 70% by updating marketing collateral and outreach approach which resulted in 50 new classrooms onboarded to the program •Created training materials and organized and conducted training to over 200 teachers and staff to increase best practices of waste source separation at the bin. •Developed pre-K curriculum, resource guides and other take-home material to assist in the education of over 1,000 students in the program, resulting in thousands of pounds diversion •Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Public Relations, Health Science Emphasis, CSU Chico •Education & Outreach Instructor for GreenEducation.us •CRRA Behavior-Based Strategies Technical Council Co-Chair •Community-Based Social Marketing, Advanced Certificate, Doug McKenzie Mohr •Climate Protection Professional Certificate, Skyline Community College •California Food Safety Certified Principal Consultant / Owner | ReCREATE Waste Collaborative, 2020-Present Project Manager | R3 Consulting Group, Inc., 2015-2019 Green Child Care Coordinator | Alameda County (GSA) // SEI Climate Corps Bay Area Program, 2014-2015 Recreate your approach to edible food recovery KIRK KUNIHIRO PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE EDUCATION & AFFILIATIONS • 12 years of direct experience managing large-scale waste characterizations for local jurisdictions, statewide studies, and large events. • Leads all waste route review projects, requiring idenfiying workable solutions for scheduling waste collection/ sample pick-ups in coordination with local jurisdiction and waste hauler staff. • Responsible for the development of task deliverables, quality control of field work data, overseeing and coordinating route reviews, and serving as the direct contact between the jurisdiction and waste hauler(s). • Develops data collection and management systems apps, data analysis, outreach material and presentation of findings • Implemented waste characterization studies, education and outreach programs, public engagement workshops, and technical assistance • Oversaw all business administration and development, project management, staff hiring and coordination, and fieldwork • Provides zero waste event operations and sustainable site services for over 100 events throughout the West Coast and beyond. • Oversees business administration, project management, and social media management • Managed a 1,200 household residential recycling pilot, overseeing interns in the planning and implementation of the project • Conducted and oversaw door to door outreach, community engagement meetings, route audits, bin distribution, data organization, and waste assessments • Assisted with zero waste event services and HHW collection events • Bachelor of Sciences in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration, San Francisco State University • Professional Affiliations: Northern California Recycling Association, California Resource Recovery Association, Zero Waste Youth USA, California Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education Principal Consultant / Co-Owner | ReCREATE Waste Collaborative, 2020-Present Owner & Principal | Planet People Waste Insights, 2019-2022 Co-Owner, Chief Operations Officer | WasteNaught Events, 2015-Present Waste Diversion Specialist | Pennsylvania Resources Council, 2015 Recreate your approach to edible food recovery ANTONELLA ZAMORA GALVEZ PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE •San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments: Conducts staff training, oversees quality control of inspections input to Careit for approximately 1,000 inspections, conducts inspections in 5 participating cities, responsible for developing monthly and annual reports and client meetings •Imperial Valley Resource Management Agency: Oversaw inspection team assignments and data input, developed and presented an edible food recovery capacity report with recommendations for improving the program, confirmed list of Tier 1 and Tier 2 edible food generators and food recovery organizations in the county •City of Palm Springs: Conducted business outreach at approximately 80 businesses, up to three times, to educate businesses about the single-use plastics ordinance and increase compliance •The Recycling Partnership: Led a 10,000 household study in Florida by overseeing a 4-person team and ensuring outreach was provided safely and within the project timeline, which included distributing indoor recycling pails to 1,200 multifamily units; led a 1,800 household cart tagging project for the City of Folsom over the course of 4 weeks, which included hosting 4 community postcard writing events; led an 1,800 household cart tagging project for the City of Hickory Hills (IL) overseeing a 4-person team •Organized, executed and presented findings from conducting two rounds of inspections for the City of Ceres using Careit; organized and executed inspections for the City of California City •Los Angeles County: Completed recycling characterizations at over 40 commercial accounts throughout the county safely and accurately Recycling Specialist II | ReCREATE Waste Collaborative, 2021-Present •Researched California’s Green Business Network requirements to provide technical support and facilitate business communications. •Conducted outreach to over 50 businesses daily via phone and email, maintaining meticulous records and delivering support in English and Spanish. •Developed strategies to enhance community and business engagement with the program through targeted social media efforts. Green Business Program Intern | City of Long Beach Office of Sustainability, 2021 EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, & SKILLS •Bachelor of Science, Environmental Science and Policy, Minor: Biology, CSU Long Beach •Awarded The Port of Long Beach Environmental Science Scholarship (2020) •California Food Safety Certified •Fluent in Spanish •MS Office Suite & Google Suite Recreate your approach to edible food recovery ATTACHMENT B Client Reference Letters City of Diamond Bar 21810 Copley Drive  Diamond Bar, CA 91765-4178 (909) 839-7000  Fax (909) 861-3117 www.DiamondBarCA.gov Jimmy Lin Mayor Ruth M. Low Mayor Pro Tem Carol Herrera Council Member Nancy A. Lyons Council Member Steve Tye Council Member     February 28, 2017 Laith Ezzet, CMC Senior Vice President HF&H Consultants, LLC 19200 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 360 Irvine, CA 92612 Dear Laith, On behalf of the City of Diamond Bar, I would like to convey my appreciation to you and the HF&H Team for providing professional and technical expertise during the successful contract negotiations with Waste Management and Valley Vista Services. The negotiations were completed on time, within budget, and ultimately approved by the City Council well in advance of the agreement expiration. The City of Diamond Bar has utilized the services of HF&H on more than one occasion, providing the community with robust services at competitive rates. The recent negotiations solidified the work that was performed during the City’s last negotiating period, but also included some notable enhancements:  No ratepayer increases for the first year of the amended agreement.  Continued Franchise and AB939 revenues.  Additional revenues for street sweeping services.  New Organics programs that comply with AB 1826 requirements.  Continuation of curbside HHW and bulky item pickups.  Focus on accountability, including reporting and performance audits. This letter serves not only as a reference for your professionalism and high quality of work, but as confirmation that the HF&H Team provides results that ultimately benefit the City, its residents and businesses we serve. Thank you again for the opportunity to work with you and the HF&H Team. I am available to discuss specifics by phone at 909.839.7010 or by email at rmclean@diamondbarca.gov. Sincerely, Ryan McLean Assistant City Manager  January 10, 2023 To whom it may concern: The Garden Grove Sanitary District has contracted with HF&H Consultants since 2017. Initially, HF&H was under contract to assist with AB 341 and AB 1826 compliance through program development and implementation. Over the years, HF&H has become an important and reliable resource. The District has increased their scope of work to involve more components. In 2021-2022, HF&H assisted the District in negotiating an amended and restated agreement with our franchise waste hauler. HF&H staff listened to the District’s needs and did their best to integrate those needs into the contract. HF&H was instrumental in negotiating lower initial rates for District residents while incorporating all components of SB 1383 compliance for single-family, commercial and multi-family developments and expanding pre-existing services. HF&H continues to work with the District to assist in monitoring the negotiated amended and restated agreement and in providing guidance to both the District and the franchise hauler on all aspects of SB 1383 and its implementation. HF&H is also helping with oversight and monitoring to keep the District on schedule with our Notice of Intent to Comply filed with CalRecycle. Their experience and advice has been invaluable, and HF&H has become a valued member of our operation. HF&H regularly assists District staff with formal presentations to the community and the District’s Board of Directors. I highly recommend HF&H Consultants to any government entity in need of solid waste management advisement, skilled program development, and implementation. Please feel free to contact me at (714) 741-5372 if additional information is needed. Sincerely, Mark Ladney Senior Program Specialist Garden Grove Sanitary District City of Garden Grove December 28, 2020 Colonel J. Burnley, Solid Waste Manager Department of Public Works Mr. Laith Ezzet, CMC Senior Vice President HF&H Consultants, LLC 19200 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 360 Irvine, California 92612 RE: Letter of Recommendation On behalf of the City of Beverly Hills, I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the many years of outstanding service provided by HF&H Consultants. Since 1993, HF&H has provided solid waste advisory services to the City of Beverly Hills, including contract procurement, franchise agreement negotiations, hauler audits, and rate analysis for the City’s residential and commercial waste hauling services. The most recent projects included auditing the franchise hauler’s cost of service, renegotiating the City’s commercial solid waste collection and material processing contract with Athens, followed by a comprehensive solid waste rate study for residential and commercial services. The rate study was particularly challenging as the phase-in of solid waste rate increases needed to be sensitive to the economic circumstances surrounding the COVID 19 pandemic, and a year-long series of workshops and meetings were held with the Public Works Commission and City Council to address their concerns. HF&H’s professional and well-qualified staff have been a benefit to the City, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to recommend HF&H Consultants to other jurisdictions. Sincerely, Colonel J. Burnley, Solid Waste Manager Public Works Department City of Beverly Hills Department of Public Works 345 Foothill Road. Beverly Hills, California 90210 p (310) 285-2475 f (310) 278-1838 November 20, 2025 To Whom it May Concern I am writing to share our experience working with Natalie Lessa and the team at Recreate, FoodCycle has been partnering with Recreate since 2020, working in the food recovery space, in order to increase the donation of edible food and assist businesses with compliance with SB 1383. As part of that partnership, we have worked closely with Recreate on several projects, including one assisting the City of Glendale with implementation of SB1383 and expansion of its food recovery efforts. As a result of this partnership, Recreate, Careit and FoodCycle have created an innovative program that has resulted in a significant increase in the amount of edible food donated during the past two years. Recreate is has extensive experience and an effective approach to outreach, and has been working with multiple jurisdictions, EWGs, FROs and other entities impacted by SB1383. I recommend Recreate for any project that expands food recovery outreach and education. They have an effective strategy, which is needed to encourage compliance with SB1383. Recreate has drawn upon their extensive experience to create a model that responds with great flexibility, resourcefulness, and attention to detail, to help businesses comply with the law. Please feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions Sincerely, Nancy Beyda Executive Director FoodCycle Email: nancy@foodcyclela.orgPhone: (323) 646-4362 ATTACHMENT C Sample Certificate of Insurance SHOULD ANY OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED POLICIES BE CANCELLED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION DATE THEREOF, NOTICE WILL BE DELIVERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE POLICY PROVISIONS. INSURER(S) AFFORDING COVERAGE INSURER F : INSURER E : INSURER D : INSURER C : INSURER B : INSURER A : NAIC # NAME:CONTACT (A/C, No):FAX E-MAILADDRESS: PRODUCER (A/C, No, Ext):PHONE INSURED REVISION NUMBER:CERTIFICATE NUMBER:COVERAGES IMPORTANT: If the certificate holder is an ADDITIONAL INSURED, the policy(ies) must have ADDITIONAL INSURED provisions or be endorsed. If SUBROGATION IS WAIVED, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy, certain policies may require an endorsement. A statement on this certificate does not confer rights to the certificate holder in lieu of such endorsement(s). THIS CERTIFICATE IS ISSUED AS A MATTER OF INFORMATION ONLY AND CONFERS NO RIGHTS UPON THE CERTIFICATE HOLDER. THIS CERTIFICATE DOES NOT AFFIRMATIVELY OR NEGATIVELY AMEND, EXTEND OR ALTER THE COVERAGE AFFORDED BY THE POLICIES BELOW. THIS CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT BETWEEN THE ISSUING INSURER(S), AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OR PRODUCER, AND THE CERTIFICATE HOLDER. OTHER: (Per accident) (Ea accident) $ $ N / A SUBR WVD ADDL INSD THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE POLICIES OF INSURANCE LISTED BELOW HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO THE INSURED NAMED ABOVE FOR THE POLICY PERIOD INDICATED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY REQUIREMENT, TERM OR CONDITION OF ANY CONTRACT OR OTHER DOCUMENT WITH RESPECT TO WHICH THIS CERTIFICATE MAY BE ISSUED OR MAY PERTAIN, THE INSURANCE AFFORDED BY THE POLICIES DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO ALL THE TERMS, EXCLUSIONS AND CONDITIONS OF SUCH POLICIES. LIMITS SHOWN MAY HAVE BEEN REDUCED BY PAID CLAIMS. $ $ $ $PROPERTY DAMAGE BODILY INJURY (Per accident) BODILY INJURY (Per person) COMBINED SINGLE LIMIT AUTOS ONLY AUTOSAUTOS ONLY NON-OWNED SCHEDULEDOWNED ANY AUTO AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY Y / N WORKERS COMPENSATION AND EMPLOYERS' LIABILITY OFFICER/MEMBER EXCLUDED? (Mandatory in NH) DESCRIPTION OF OPERATIONS below If yes, describe under ANY PROPRIETOR/PARTNER/EXECUTIVE $ $ $ E.L. DISEASE - POLICY LIMIT E.L. DISEASE - EA EMPLOYEE E.L. EACH ACCIDENT EROTH-STATUTEPER LIMITS(MM/DD/YYYY)POLICY EXP(MM/DD/YYYY)POLICY EFFPOLICY NUMBERTYPE OF INSURANCELTRINSR DESCRIPTION OF OPERATIONS / LOCATIONS / VEHICLES (ACORD 101, Additional Remarks Schedule, may be attached if more space is required) EXCESS LIAB UMBRELLA LIAB $EACH OCCURRENCE $AGGREGATE $ OCCUR CLAIMS-MADE DED RETENTION $ $PRODUCTS - COMP/OP AGG $GENERAL AGGREGATE $PERSONAL & ADV INJURY $MED EXP (Any one person) $EACH OCCURRENCE DAMAGE TO RENTED $PREMISES (Ea occurrence) COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY CLAIMS-MADE OCCUR GEN'L AGGREGATE LIMIT APPLIES PER: POLICY PRO-JECT LOC CERTIFICATE OF LIABILITY INSURANCE DATE (MM/DD/YYYY) CANCELLATION AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE ACORD 25 (2016/03) © 1988-2015 ACORD CORPORATION. All rights reserved. CERTIFICATE HOLDER The ACORD name and logo are registered marks of ACORD HIRED AUTOS ONLY ACORD 0025 2016-03 Acroform 09/04/2024 Newfront Insurance Services, LLC 450 Sansome Street Suite 300 San Francisco CA 94111 Ashley Mack (415) 754-3635 ashley.mack@newfront.com HF&H Consultants, LLC 590 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Suite 105 Walnut Creek CA 94596 Citizens Insurance Company of America 31534 Hartford Casualty Insurance Company 29424 Gemini Insurance Company 10833 A OBF-D681476-07 09/06/2024 09/06/2025 2,000,000 1,000,000 10,000 4,000,000 3,000,000 A OBF-D681476-07 09/06/2024 09/06/2025 A OBF-D681476-07 09/06/2024 09/06/2025 3,000,000 3,000,000 B 57 WEC ZR5765 09/06/2024 09/06/2025 1,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 C Professional Liability VNPL016870 09/06/2024 09/06/2025 Aggregate 2,000,000 Each Loss Ded 25,000 2,000,000 Evidence of Coverage. Evidence Only ATTACHMENT D Year 1 and Year 2 Workplans City of Diamond Bar Solid Waste and Recycling Consulting Proposal Fee Estimate Year 1 (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026)ExecutiveSr. Project ManagerSr. AssociateAssociateAdministrativeComp. ManagerComp. Assist.Task LeadProject SupportTotal Proposed $370 $310 $250 $185 $135 $204 $193 $116 $80 Hours Cost Task 1 Transition Assistance - Scope Task A 1a Monitor Residential & Commercial Implementation Plans and Schedules 4 8 18 0 0 30 $8,460 1b Develop Transition Plan 2 6 12 2 0 22 $5,970 1c Review Public Education 0 4 16 2 0 22 $5,610 1d Review Reporting Forms & Customer Billing Formats 2 10 26 2 0 40 $10,710 1e Customer Service Support for Transition Period 0 2 10 4 0 16 $3,860 Task 1 8 30 82 10 0 130 $34,610 Task 2 Contract Management - Scope Task A 2a Virtual Monthly Franchise Management Meetings 24 36 60 2 4 126 $35,950 2b Plan and monitor Residential & Commercial compliance implementation 12 16 40 8 0 76 $20,880 2c Review Residential & Commercial reports 8 16 50 8 0 82 $21,900 2d State compliance and reports support 2 8 24 8 0 42 $10,700 2e Verify Residential & Commercial annual rate adjustment requests 4 8 28 8 0 48 $12,440 Task 2 50 84 202 34 4 374 $101,870 Task 3 SB 1383 Compliance - Scope Task B (ReCREATE Support Included) 3a Business Education & Outreach (ReCREATE)10 34 0 265 0 309 $40,776 3b Route Reviews (ReCREATE)10 0 24 71 120 225 $25,568 3c Edible Food Donation Program (ReCREATE)10 20 0 68 0 98 $15,010 3d SB 1383 ROWP Procurement Support 2 10 12 0 0 24 $6,840 Task 3 2 40 12 0 0 54 24 404 120 656 $88,194 Task 4 SB 54 Compliance - Scope Task C 4a Monitor SB 54 regulations and implementation 0 4 12 2 0 18 $4,610 4b Provide legislative updates and conduct presentations 2 2 8 0 2 14 $3,630 4c Analyze baseline conditions to determine hauler compliance 2 2 12 2 0 18 $4,730 4d Review City policies and develop strategies for SB 54 compliance 2 2 4 0 0 8 $2,360 Task 4 6 10 36 4 2 58 $15,330 Total Costs Subtotal $240,004 Expenses including Careit $3,996 Total Budget $244,000 *Hours may be shifted among tasks and between years HF&H Consultants, LLC 2/27/2025 City of Diamond Bar Solid Waste and Recycling Consulting Proposal Fee Estimate Year 2 (July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027)ExecutiveSr. Project ManagerSr. AssociateAssociateAdministrativeComp. ManagerComp. Assist.Task LeadProject SupportTotal Proposed $383 $321 $259 $191 $140 $211 $200 $120 $83 Hours Cost Task 1 Contract Management & Supplemental Transition Assistance - Scope Task A 1a Virtual Quarterly Residential Franchise Management Meetings 4 12 19 4 0 39 $11,069 1b Virtual Monthly Commercial Franchise Management Meetings 12 20 27 4 0 63 $18,773 1c Monitor Residential & Commercial compliance implementation 10 18 48 10 0 86 $23,950 1d Review Residential & Commercial reports 8 16 48 8 0 80 $22,160 1e State compliance and reports support 2 8 24 8 0 42 $11,078 1f Verify Residential & Commercial annual rate adjustment requests 2 6 24 8 0 40 $10,436 1g Supplemental Transition Assistance (if needed)2 4 6 2 0 14 $3,986 Task 1 40 84 196 44 0 364 $101,452 Task 2 SB 1383 Compliance - Scope Task B (ReCREATE Support Included) 2a Business Education & Outreach (ReCREATE)10 34 0 265 0 309 $42,184 2b Route Reviews (ReCREATE)10 0 24 71 120 225 $26,490 2c Edible Food Donation Program (ReCREATE)10 20 0 68 0 98 $15,530 2d SB 1383 ROWP Procurement Support 2 8 10 0 0 20 $5,924 Task 2 2 38 10 0 0 54 24 404 120 652 $90,128 Task 3 SB 54 Compliance - Scope Task C 3a Monitor SB 54 regulations and implementation 0 4 10 2 0 16 $4,256 3b Provide legislative updates and conduct presentations 2 2 4 0 2 10 $2,724 3c Analyze baseline conditions to determine hauler compliance 2 2 12 2 0 18 $4,898 3d Review City policies and develop strategies for SB 54 compliance 4 8 8 4 0 24 $6,936 Task 3 8 16 34 8 2 68 $18,814 Total Costs Subtotal $210,394 Expenses including Careit $3,606 Total Budget $214,000 *Hours may be shifted among tasks and between years HF&H Consultants, LLC 2/27/2025 ATTACHMENT E ReCREATE Work Samples BAG IT UP APPLE VALLEY Embólselo, Apple Valley Organics Yard trimmings (not bagged) Recortes de jardín(no embolsados) Food scraps (bagged) Restos de alimentos(embolsados) Food-soiled paper (bagged) Productos de papelcontaminados con alimentos(embolsados) Productos orgánicos Food waste and food scraps must be bagged and placed in the organics barrel. Follow these instructions to dispose of your waste correctly. Los desperdicios y restos de alimentos deben embolsarse y colocarse en el barril de productos orgánicos. Siga estas instrucciones para deshacerse de sus residuos correctamente. Do you know how to separate your waste the right way? ¿Sabe cómo separar sus residuos de la manera correcta? Household Hazardous Residuos Domésticos Peligrosos Free drop off every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. except holidays at 13450 Nomwaket Road. Entrega gratuita todos los sábados de 10 a.m. a 2 p.m. excepto días festivos a 13450 Nomwaket Road. Recycling Reciclaje Trash Basura ep@applevalley.org Questions? ¿Preguntas? 760-240-7000 ext 7569 Household Hazardous Waste Trash & Recycling Website Senate Bill 1383State of California Law FOOD SCRAPS Fruits, Veggies, Meat, Bones, Dairy, Eggshells, Coffee Grounds, Tea Bags What is Senate Bill 1383? Senate Bill 1383 is a statewide law that went into effect in January 2022 and requires all organic waste to be diverted from landfills in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. All businesses in the state are required to have a program for organic waste (organics/green bins) and keep trash and recyclables separate - see backside for instructions on how to set up a program. Participation is required and helps the City of Torrance meet its sustainability goals. Who is Required to Comply? All businesses and multi-family dwellings (5+ units) must subscribe to a 3- bin system for landfill, recycling, and organics services with their waste hauling company. All businesses in a mall, strip mall or multi-unit complex should have access to organics services. What is Organic Waste? Plastic bags "Compostable" plastics Plastic-lined paper cups NO! Keep Contaminants Out of the Organics Bin! Organic waste is material that can be composted and turned into soil, which includes all food scraps, food-soiled paper and yard trimmings/green waste. It is very important that you and your employees, customers, tenants etc. do not put anything in the organics bin that cannot be composted. FOOD-SOILED PAPER Pizza Boxes, Napkins, Bags, Paper Towels (No Plastic or Foil-Lined Paper) For more information visit www.torranceca.gov/publicworks 1 Set Up Organic Waste Program Keep Organic WasteSeparate from Trash 2 Educate Employees & Customers 4 Prevents organics from going into the trash and filling landfills unnecessarily Reduces greenhouse gas emissions from the decomposition of waste in landfills Helps California farms by providing nutrient rich compost products for soil Helps keep trash rates low by prolonging the life of landfills The easiest way to set up an organics waste program is to contact your waste hauler. Sign up for an organic waste collection service with a permitted waste hauler. They will provide your business with outdoor organics (green) bins. You may need to purchase indoor bins and print and display signs for employees and customers to see. HOW TO PARTICIPATE & COMPLY Set Up Indoor Bins & Signs Teach employees, tenants and customers what is allowed in the organics bin and monitor contamination. Businesses are required to provide information to employees and new tenants to minimize contamination on an annual basis. Organic waste must not be placed in recycling or trash and needs to be free of plastic bags and other contamination. Businesses must establish indoor infrastructure and display signs to support the organics waste program per Assembly Bill 876 - download and print your signs by scanning the QR code below. Business owners, employees and customers are all responsible for ensuring waste is separated correctly. To learn how to separate waste, scan the QR code below. For more information visit www.TorranceRecycles.org 2 3 Benefits of Using Organics Bins: Scan to download and print your landfill, recycle and organics signsto educate staff and customers on proper source separation!