additional resources, handouts, and more
From Governance to Garbage
Presenters: Mark Holstine, Executive Director, WV SWMB & Kelly Vickers, Compliance Manager, WV SWMB
Mark Holstine is a licensed Professional Engineer and the Executive Director of the WV SWMB, where he oversees statewide solid waste authorities and statutory responsibilities. With over 30 years of experience, his career spans significant leadership roles, including serving as the Public Works Director for the City of Charleston and managing complex environmental permitting and infrastructure projects. Currently, he utilizes his extensive technical expertise to provide direct operational oversight for the Tucker County Solid Waste Authority and its landfill to ensure long-term regulatory compliance.
Kelly Vickers is the Compliance Manager for the WV SWMB, where she oversees financial oversight, internal controls, and regulatory compliance. She holds a Master's degree in Leadership Studies and maintains several certifications, including Certified Manager of Landfill Operations and Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP). A respected leader who presents at national conferences, Kelly leverages over a decade of public sector experience to drive fiscal accountability and operational excellence throughout the state.
This session provides a practical introduction to what a Solid Waste Authority (SWA) is, and the who, what, and why behind SWA governance and operations. Participants will learn the responsibilities of board members, how day-to-day operations are handled, and what to watch for in terms of finances, compliance, reporting, and accountability.
Minimize Waste, Maximize Resources
Presenter: Ashley Nielson, Sourcewell
Ashley Nielson serves as Account Executive at Sourcewell, where she manages cooperative contract relationships for local government agencies across West Virginia, Virginia, and the Northeast. She brings a decade of experience as a trusted public sector advisor, including a previous background as an Investment Advisor Representative for state and local retirement plans. Based in Chesterfield, Virginia, Ashley balances her professional role with a commitment to community service through her volunteer work with a local animal rescue.
This session explores how cooperative procurement helps West Virginia waste management teams overcome equipment delays and tight budgets. By connecting operations to the purchasing process, you'll learn how to stretch resources and acquire critical tools faster. The session will break down the basics of cooperative purchasing, explaining how Sourcewell's competitively awarded contracts are already used across the state. Attendees will gain a practical understanding of different buying methods and how end users can influence the timeline for necessary solutions.
Purchasing with Purpose
Presenter: Sherri Vasquez, WV State Auditor's Office
Sherri Vasquez is the Program Manager for the WV State Auditor's Office Local Government Purchasing Card Program, bringing a decade of industry expertise to the role. As the primary point of contact for local entities, she oversees all aspects of the program, including the essential training of coordinators and cardholders across the state. A West Virginia native who studied accounting and finance at Fairmont State University, Sherri is dedicated to supporting the people and communities of her home state.
The West Virginia State Auditor's Office (WVSAO) Purchasing Card (PCard) Program offers a streamlined, accountable alternative for agency procurement. Participants will learn how to enroll, integrate PCards, and improve efficiency, convenience, and financial oversight in daily purchasing operations.
National Leadership, Local Impact
Presenter: Carolyn Muller, VP, Industry Relations, SWANA
Carolyn Muller serves as the Vice President of Industry Relations for the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA).
SWANA VP of Industry Relations outlines the waste and resource management industry's evolution, highlighting strategic initiatives and enhanced member services for professional development. This session covers SWANA's advocacy for sustainable solutions and public policy influence, connecting federal efforts to local operations.
Ethics & Open Governmental Essentials
Presenter: Kimberly Weber, WV Ethics Commission
Kimberly Weber is the Executive Director of the WV Ethics Commission, a role she has held since 2010 following her tenure as the agency's General Counsel and Staff Attorney. A graduate of the WVU College of Law, her legal career includes serving as the City Attorney for Charleston and practicing as an associate and of-counsel for private firms.
This session provides a comprehensive overview of the West Virginia Ethics Act and the Open Meetings Act to ensure public officials remain in compliance with state law. Participants will explore critical ethics topics, such as public contracts, voting conflicts, and restrictions on private gain or gifts. Additionally, the presentation covers essential open meeting requirements, including proper notice, agenda preparation, and legal exceptions for executive sessions. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how to maintain transparency and accountability in their everyday government operations.
Comprehensive & Siting Plans
Presenter: Niki Davis, Recycling Market Development Manager, WV SWMB
Niki Davis is the Recycling Market Development Manager for the WV SWMB, where she leads statewide planning and supports various recycling initiatives. Her 14-year career includes significant roles at the WV DEP, where she managed key programs like Adopt-A-Highway, REAP, and served as an inspector for the Aboveground Storage Tank Program. Drawing on her background in biology and environmental enforcement, Niki now focuses on strengthening the state's waste management systems through sustainable, community-driven outreach and policy development.
This session outlines the regulatory requirements for SWA Comprehensive and Siting Plans as mandated by West Virginia Code. Participants will learn about submission timelines, required content, and the specific procedures for reporting updates or aligning siting plans with the permitting process. The presentation also provides guidance on incorporating sustainability factors, such as infrastructure needs and environmental impact, into long-term planning. By the end of the session, attendees will understand how to develop forward-looking plans that meet all legal and environmental expectations.
Trash to Treasure
Presenters: Travis Kiblinger, Executive Director, & Sherrie Hunter, Director of Education, Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority
Travis Kiblinger has served the Raleigh County SWA since 2000, currently providing comprehensive leadership as its Executive Director. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Purdue University Global and is a SWANA-certified Manager of Landfill Operations. In his role, Travis manages the full scope of authority operations with a dedicated focus on financial integrity, strategic planning, and environmental stewardship for the community.
Since joining the RCSWA in 2001, Sherrie Hunter has focused her career on public relations and recycling education. She has been instrumental in developing key local programs, including the Raleigh County School Recycling and Education Program and the Seniors Fresh Vegetables Initiative. Each year, she provides educational facility tours to hundreds of students from across West Virginia to promote the importance of environmental stewardship and community awareness.
The Raleigh County SWA offers an in-depth tour of its facilities, showcasing the journey of recyclables from collection through processing at the E. Paul Barley Recycling Center and Waste-to-Energy plant. Participants explore daily landfill operations, leachate management, and community education initiatives designed to promote sustainable reduction, reuse, and recycling practices. Learn more about the facility's operations on the Raleigh County SWA's website.
Bionic Tire Recycling: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Waste Management
This presentation introduces Bionic Tire Recycling, a pioneering approach to waste management that leverages mechanical innovation and biological advancements to address the global tire waste crisis. The process utilizes engineered microbes, enzymatic treatments, and biomimetic catalysts to break down tires more efficiently than conventional methods while significantly reducing toxic emissions. Beyond its efficiency and recovery rates, this technology offers substantial environmental benefits by diverting waste from landfills and protecting ecosystems. Future directions for the company include integrating artificial intelligence for process control and optimizing microbial strains to further enhance recycling productivity.
REAP the Benefits
Presenters: Travis Cooper, Lead Compliance Officer, & Laura Adkins, Compliance Officer, WV DEP Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan (REAP)
Travis Cooper is an 18-year veteran of the WV DEP, having begun his career as an intern with the Division of Air Quality while studying Ecology at Mountain State University. Throughout his tenure, he has served in key roles such as the Coordinator of the Make It Shine Program and as a Contract Specialist for the Landfill Closure Assistance Program. He currently serves as the Lead Compliance Officer for REAP, where he oversees the regulatory integrity of the agency's various grant programs.
Laura Adkins joined the DEP in 2007, focusing on environmental permitting in the energy sector before serving as a regulatory analyst in Pittsburgh. Upon returning to the DEP in 2020, she joined the REAP program to manage electronic device registrations, grant compliance, and recycling assistance liens. Outside of her professional duties, she is a Jackson County native with a strong interest in alternative energy sources and the reduction of single-use plastics.
This session guides West Virginia partners through the full lifecycle of the WV DEP's Recycling Assistance Grant Program, covering application strategies and post-award compliance. Attendees will learn to prepare successful proposals, understand allowable expenditures, and manage grant funds effectively for local recycling initiatives.
Turning Partnerships into Progress
Presenter: Rob Vanater, Executive Director, Putnam County Solid Waste Authority
Rob Vanater transitioned from a successful career in the restaurant industry to public service, leveraging his background in operations and leadership to serve his local community. Since stepping into the Director role at the Putnam County SWA in 2023, he has focused on expanding recycling access, social media engagement, and sustainability awareness. His outreach efforts culminated in the successful 2025 opening of a new recycling drop off center, which now serves nearly 600 vehicles per week due to high levels of community participation.
This session explores how the Putnam County SWA uses community partnerships and creative sponsorships to grow operations despite limited funding. Participants will learn how to build infrastructure through shared resources and public-private cooperation, illustrated by a real-world recycling drop-site case study. The presentation also covers the importance of transparency and ethics guidance when implementing sponsorship programs like fence signage and scholarships. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for leveraging local engagement to create sustainable, high-impact waste management programs.
Grants Management for Solid waste authorities
Presenters: Niki Davis, Recycling Market Development Manager, & Isaiah McCoy, Environmental Resources Specialist, WV SWMB
Niki Davis is the Recycling Market Development Manager for the WV SWMB, where she leads statewide planning and supports various recycling initiatives. Her 14-year career includes significant roles at the WV DEP, where she managed key programs like Adopt-A-Highway, REAP, and served as an inspector for the Aboveground Storage Tank Program. Drawing on her background in biology and environmental enforcement, Niki now focuses on strengthening the state's waste management systems through sustainable, community-driven outreach and policy development.
Isaiah McCoy is an Environmental Resources Specialist for the WV SWMB, where he supports the agency's grant program and ensures compliance monitoring for solid waste authorities statewide. He brings valuable regulatory experience from the WV DEP, where his work focused on grant administration, data systems, and public communication across the Office of Environmental Advocate and the Office of Oil & Gas. Isaiah holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration & Policy from Marshall University, and also collaborates with the Recycling Coalition of West Virginia to advance sustainability and nonprofit efforts in West Virginia.
This session guides Solid Waste Authorities through the entire grant lifecycle, from application to final closeout. Participants will learn to navigate eligibility criteria, avoid common disqualifiers, and manage post-award responsibilities like state code compliance and procurement. The presentation emphasizes proper recordkeeping and reporting to ensure public funds are managed responsibly. Attendees will gain the practical tools needed to secure funding and successfully pass future audits.
Trust but Verify - Internal Controls and Best Practices for Solid Waste Authorities
Presenter: Kelly Vickers, Compliance Manager, WV SWMB
Kelly Vickers is the Compliance Manager for the WV SWMB, where she oversees financial oversight, internal controls, and regulatory compliance. She holds a Master's degree in Leadership Studies and maintains several certifications, including Certified Manager of Landfill Operations and Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP). A respected leader who presents at national conferences, Kelly leverages over a decade of public sector experience to drive fiscal accountability and operational excellence throughout the state.
This session provides a comprehensive look at internal control frameworks and operational best practices designed for SWAs. Attendees will learn to apply WV Code and mandatory reporting standards to improve financial oversight and risk mitigation. The presentation uses real-world examples to explain performance review expectations and organizational accountability. Participants will leave with practical tools to strengthen compliance and enhance the operational integrity of their agencies.
Youth Leading the Way
Presenter: Annette Hoskins, Youth Environmental Program Director, WV DEP
Annette Hoskins is the Director of the WV DEP's Youth Environmental Program, contributing 19 years of expertise to the department. After a decade in sales and communications following her studies at UNC-Chapel Hill, she transitioned into environmental education to fulfill her goal of working with children. Now a resident of Charleston, Annette spends her personal time hiking, baking, and traveling with her family.
This session provides a comprehensive overview of the West Virginia Youth Environmental Program (YEP) and its mission to engage youth in environmental stewardship. Participants will learn about the various incentives available, including over $15,000 in annual prizes and the $10,000 Rick Vecellio Memorial Scholarship. The presentation also highlights YEP-hosted events and partnership opportunities with volunteer cleanup initiatives like Adopt-a-Highway and Make It Shine. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how to support youth-led community improvement and environmental awareness across the state.
Prevention with Purpose
Presenter: Greg Rote, Environmental Resources Specialist Supervisor, WV DEP Pollution Prevention and Open Dump Program (PPOD)
Gregory Rote is an Environmental Resources Specialist Supervisor for the WV DEP's Pollution Prevention and Open Dump Program (PPOD), bringing 36 years of experience to the agency. Throughout his tenure, he has collaborated with local governments and SWAs to address illegal dumping and promote responsible waste management practices across the state. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University and a Master's degree in Environmental Science from Marshall University, combining deep academic knowledge with decades of field experience.
This session provides an overview of the DEP's PPOD Program and its efforts to combat illegal dumping and litter statewide. Participants will learn how the program coordinates open dump cleanups and manages key initiatives like the Make It Shine campaign, the DEP Tire Program, and Adopt-a-Stream. The presentation highlights how SWAs and local governments can collaborate with PPOD to leverage resources and strengthen community-driven prevention strategies. Attendees will gain practical insights into improving environmental outcomes and fostering public engagement for cleaner communities.
Who Regulates What? - The PSC's Role in Solid Waste
Presenter: Bill Flenner, Utilities Analyst, Public Service Commission of West Virginia
Bill Flenner is a Utilities Analyst within the WV PSC's Utilities Division, where he specializes in the regulation of motor carriers and solid waste transport services. His work involves performing detailed analyses of certificates of convenience and necessity, rate oversight, and enforcement actions to support the Commission's supervisory mandates. By contributing to vital agency evaluations and memoranda, Mr. Flenner ensures the effective regulation of intrastate utility services and carrier operations across the state.
This session provides an overview of the WV PSC's regulatory role within the solid waste industry. Participants will explore the PSC's jurisdiction over waste haulers and SWAs, including rate oversight, service territories, and enforcement matters. The presentation clarifies the distinction between regulated and unregulated operations while offering strategies to avoid common compliance pitfalls. Attendees will leave with a practical understanding of how service pricing is established and how to navigate the Commission's requirements effectively.
From Classroom to Community
Presenters: Niki Davis, Recycling Market Development Manager, & Isaiah McCoy, Environmental Resources Specialist, WV SWMB
Niki Davis is the Recycling Market Development Manager for the WV SWMB, where she leads statewide planning and supports various recycling initiatives. Her 14-year career includes significant roles at the WV DEP, where she managed key programs like Adopt-A-Highway, REAP, and served as an inspector for the Aboveground Storage Tank Program. Drawing on her background in biology and environmental enforcement, Niki now focuses on strengthening the state's waste management systems through sustainable, community-driven outreach and policy development.
Isaiah McCoy is an Environmental Resources Specialist for the WV SWMB, where he supports the agency's grant program and ensures compliance monitoring for solid waste authorities statewide. He brings valuable regulatory experience from the WV DEP, where his work focused on grant administration, data systems, and public communication across the Office of Environmental Advocate and the Office of Oil & Gas. Isaiah holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration & Policy from Marshall University, and also collaborates with the Recycling Coalition of West Virginia to advance sustainability and nonprofit efforts in West Virginia.
This session explores how the Recycling Coalition of West Virginia promotes sustainable waste reduction through statewide education and collaborative outreach. Participants will learn about available tools and programs designed to connect schools, local governments, and organizations with practical recycling solutions. The presentation highlights successful community initiatives and strategies for increasing participation to help SWAs strengthen local recycling habits. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how to leverage Coalition resources to build more effective waste management systems.
Cleaner Roads, Stronger Communities
Presenter: Chelsea Runion, Adopt-A-Highway Program Coordinator, WV DEP
Chelsea Runion is the Adopt-A-Highway Statewide Coordinator for the DEP, where she mobilizes thousands of volunteers to maintain the state's natural beauty. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from West Virginia State University and further serves as the treasurer for the Recycling Coalition of West Virginia. Outside of her professional dedication to environmental impact, she is a proud mother of two who enjoys inspiring the next generation to value and protect their surroundings.
This session explores the history and statewide impact of West Virginia's Adopt-A-Highway Program in reducing roadside litter and fostering community pride. Participants will learn how the program creates effective partnerships between citizens and state agencies to improve roadway cleanliness. The presentation highlights how SWAs can leverage these initiatives to strengthen public awareness of recycling and enhance local cleanup campaigns. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for engaging volunteer organizations and schools to support broader sustainability goals.
The Future of Waste to Energy
Presenter: Mark Holstine, Executive Director, WV SWMB
Mark Holstine is a licensed Professional Engineer and the Executive Director of the WV SWMB, where he oversees statewide solid waste authorities and statutory responsibilities. With over 30 years of experience, his career spans significant leadership roles, including serving as the Public Works Director for the City of Charleston and managing complex environmental permitting and infrastructure projects. Currently, he utilizes his extensive technical expertise to provide direct operational oversight for the Tucker County Solid Waste Authority and its landfill to ensure long-term regulatory compliance.
This session highlights a recent site visit to a waste-to-energy facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, showcasing innovative technologies and operational strategies used to reduce landfill dependency. Participants will explore how these forward-thinking systems maximize energy production and recovery while minimizing environmental impact. The discussion focuses on key lessons learned and how similar concepts could be applied to modernize waste handling in West Virginia. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how waste-to-energy solutions can fit into long-term regional planning.
Landfill Safety
Presenters: Kelly Vickers, Compliance Manager, WV SWMB
Kelly Vickers is the Compliance Manager for the WV SWMB, where she oversees financial oversight, internal controls, and regulatory compliance. She holds a Master's degree in Leadership Studies and maintains several certifications, including Certified Manager of Landfill Operations and Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP). A respected leader who presents at national conferences, Kelly leverages over a decade of public sector experience to drive fiscal accountability and operational excellence throughout the state.
This presentation highlights the shared responsibility of maintaining safety at landfill facilities for the protection of employees and the public. Participants will review common operational hazards, regulatory expectations, and practical accident-prevention measures. The presentation emphasizes how board members, management, and staff can work together to foster a proactive safety culture. Attendees will leave with real-world best practices and strategies to improve site safety and ensure compliance.