Consider Participating in a Future Rain Barrel and Compost Bin Sales Event

Staff was recently asked about any opportunities to partner and promote a rain barrel sales event.  In response, Staff contacted the Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM), which annually coordinates a rain barrel and compost bin sales event (these have multiple distribution/pick-up locations).  In fact, in 2016, the City of Ramsey partnered with RAM to serve as one of the distribution sites.  At that time, the City's only obligation was to provide a location for the items to be picked up by customers.  RAM handled the promotion of the event (the City did include information in the Ramsey Resident as well) and the transactions.  There were approximately eighty (80) customers that picked up a rain barrel, compost bin, or both at the Ramsey location.

 

Staff has contacted RAM about the the possibility of partnering as a distribution site again for a 2022 event.  RAM is currently in the process of coordinating the 2022 program and noted that they'd be happy to partner with Ramsey again.  The City's primary role would be to provide a site for a distribution/pick-up event, along with promotion of the event to Ramsey residents.  However, RAM did note that the number of distribution events, which occur throughout the metro area from late spring into summer, has increased since 2016 and RAM can no longer staff the events.  Thus, each locale serving as a distribution site needs to provide a couple of people to 'staff' the pick-up event. 

Attached to this case are informational sheets on the two products that would be available for purchase through this program.  RAM did note that the manufactures have raised the prices on both products (see attached information sheets).  But, while prices have increased, this program still represents a savings compared to retail pricing.

This case is being handled as part of Staff's regular duties.

Based on discussion.  If the Environmental Policy Board is interested in pursuing this, volunteers will be needed to assist with the pick-up event (date and details would be finalized over the winter).