Materials Management Advisory Committee (MMAC)

MMAC: Collaborating regionally to discuss and increase knowledge and implementation of recycling and materials management programs.

In 2005, Regional Planning staff hosted regional solid waste forums to discuss regional solid waste and recycling issues with representatives of the ten-county area. The forums identified the need for a regional framework to encourage cross-county discussion and implementation of regional solutions. Hence, the Solid Waste Advisory Committee was formed. In 2019, the members of SWAC voted to change the name to the Materials Management Advisory Council to better reflect and clarify their purpose.

MMAC Goals

To provide a forum for regional networking and common needs identification and a framework for joint program implementation.
To respond to and advocate for legislation that meets the needs of northwest Lower Michigan’s communities.
To research solid waste and recycling “best practices” and the potential development of regional programs, and make recommendations to the NWMCOG Board about potential strategies and programs.
To cooperatively develop solid waste plans – both inter-county and regional plans – that serve the public good.
To reach out to elected officials to listen, inform, and educate them about solid waste and recycling issues and opportunities.

Materials Management County Engagement Reports

Networks Northwest Region

The Networks Northwest team did a great job to help the City of Charlevoix and Charlevoix Township collaborate in addressing housing challenges in our community. They facilitated dialogue with Planning Commissioners, community stakeholders, and municipal officials to develop a plan for cohesive zoning in areas of growth for our two governments. Further, they were able to pinpoint the challenges in each unit and propose changes that would be beneficial all around. Together, we believe we'll be better prepared for housing developments and job growth in our region. We look forward to working with them on future projects!
- Mark Haydlauff, City Manager, Charlevoix