Meet Our Facility Manager, Asa!

Long-time Lopez community member Asa Kinney joined Lopez Solid Waste in April 2025, and it didn't take long for him to make an impact. His contributions quickly expanded and he put his excellent organizational and communication skills to use as site administrator, helping to make sure essential processes flowed smoothly behind the scenes.

In August 2026, Asa began his tenure as Facility Manager — a new, full-time role that stewards all LSWDD operations and site admin, and directly supports our dynamic team of staff and volunteers. We're grateful to Colby White for supporting Asa during this transition, and for continuing as an invaluable member of our crew!

"As Facility Manager, it's my responsibility to ensure that LSWDD continues to meet the needs of the Lopez community," Asa said. While his new role means he won't work in the payment kiosk as often, and he'll miss seeing everyone's faces on a regular basis, he's excited to be able to support our community in this big way.

"Every community requires waste management; what makes ours special is our dedication to clean, effective recycling and reuse. As a cornerstone of Lopez Island, the impact of Take It Or Leave It speaks for itself," said Asa, describing why he's excited to be part of the Lopez Solid Waste team. "There are more exciting recycling initiatives coming our way in Washington state, and I look forward to working alongside our team and our community to find creative ways to keep things out of the landfill."

"I think we are at the forefront of what 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' can be."

Asa's no stranger to community engagement. He's currently on the Board of Lopez Island Family Resource Center, and the Policy Committee for Parks & Rec. You may have spotted him at the recent Lopez Island Taskmaster event, which he helped organize with the Lopez Island Library. Also at the library, Asa and his friends have organized FanCon, a local gathering for fantasy-focused culture featuring games, author talks, a local maker marketplace, and more.

Of course, you're almost guaranteed to spot Asa on-site at the dump, where he works alongside fellow staff to safely and efficiently manage our community's garbage and recycling every week, rain or shine.

"It might be cliché to say, but LSWDD is like a family. We have many different personalities, perspectives and ideas, and we are all here for the same reason: We are committed to the mission of LSWDD."

Please join us in our gratitude to Asa for taking on this new role!