Benton County is pleased to announce the appointment of Bailey Payne as the County’s Solid Waste Program Coordinator. With a wealth of experience in public sector waste management, recycling, and sustainability, Bailey brings a unique set of skills and insights to the team. Having previously served in various roles, including as a Peace Corps Volunteer and as a Recycling/Waste Reduction Coordinator for Marion County, Oregon, Bailey is well-equipped to lead Benton County's solid waste and sustainable materials initiatives. His extensive background, coupled with his passion for environmental advocacy, makes him a valuable addition to the project team. Bailey will help lead Benton County’s efforts to develop a regional Sustainable Materials Management Plan (SMMP), which is a regional solid waste management project for western Oregon. Following a rigorous Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the county has identified two qualified waste analytics firms to support the project. These firms are currently being evaluated for their capacity to support the development of a comprehensive, long-term SMMP tailored to the region's needs. Efforts are underway to engage potential partners across western Oregon, including counties, cities, community members, agencies, and industry organizations. The response has already been positive, with a diverse array of stakeholders expressing interest in participating in the project's Task Force and contributing resources such as technical expertise, staff, or financial support. Bailey's is scheduled to begin today, February 20, and he is already immersing himself in the project's objectives. His diverse experiences, which include work with the Corvallis School District and involvement in environmental organizations, position him as a versatile leader capable of driving meaningful change in waste management practices. Benton County looks forward to leveraging Bailey's expertise as it continues to pursue sustainable solutions for the region. For more information, to provide feedback, or to learn how to participate in the SMMP process please visit the Benton County Community Development Department on the web or contact letsta...@bentoncountyor.gov via email. ### Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pio...@bentoncountyor.gov. | 
