Mid-America Regional Council

Public recycling workshops

Do you have a recommendation that will make local recycling programs better? July is your chance to share it with other citizens, professionals and decision-makers. One KC Voice, a community engagement program housed at MARC, is conducting the second phase of its "Landfilled" project — a series of five workshops that explore how solid waste programs, including local recycling programs, can be redesigned to better match residents’ values and lifestyles. The recommendations from the workshops will be given to the MARC Solid Waste Management District, which serves as a regional solid waste planning agency for local governments. Full story>

Green Commute Challenge encourages workers to "go green, save green" on their commutes

Driving less equals saving money — and this summer's Green Commute Challenge for employers will help commuters do both. Companies can create teams to compete against each other, earn prizes and reduce pollution by carpooling, biking, taking the bus or walking to work. The contest runs July 1 through August 29 and is sponsored by MARC's Air Quality and RideShare programs. Learn more about the challenge>

Grant funds available for waste reduction, reuse and recycling projects

MARC's Solid Waste Management District announces its fiscal year 2009 call for grant applications for waste reduction, reuse and recycling projects. Local governments, businesses, nonprofits, schools and individuals are eligible to apply for funds. All projects must be located within the MARC Solid Waste Management District, which includes Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte and Ray counties in Missouri. More information and workshop dates>

MARC honors regional leaders at annual meeting

From left: Jason Sims, MoDOT; Chad Tenpenny, Senator Pat Roberts' Office; Senator Chris Koster

From left: Jim Shultz, Independence City Councilmember; Bob Berkebile, BNIM; MARC Board Chair Gary Mallory, Cass County Presiding Commissioner

MARC presented its Regional Leadership Awards at its 12th Annual Regional Assembly on Friday, June 13. The 2008 recipients were Bob Berkebile, Principal, BNIM Architects; Chris Koster, Missouri State Senator, District 31; Pat Roberts, U.S. Senator, Kansas; and the Kansas City Scout traffic management system. The awards honor community leaders who have advanced a vision of a strong, healthy region, demonstrated commitment to its growth, and encouraged others to support and work towards that vision. The keynote address on "Building Sustainable Partnerships" was given by John Hickenlooper, Mayor of Denver.
Full story and award videos>

New site helps consumers facing foreclosure

A new online resource for residents and neighborhoods dealing with foreclosures, www.kcforeclosurehelp.org, was launched in early April. The site provides contact information for local organizations and agencies that offer free foreclosure counseling services. Many people who are experiencing financial difficulties don’t seek help until it is too late to avoid foreclosure — often because they don’t realize help is available or don’t know where to turn. “Nothing is worse than doing nothing,” said John Santner, regional director of NeighborWorks America. “This Web site can help connect consumers to people who can help.” Full story>