a) Applications for grants shall be evaluated in accordance with the following criteria:

1. 1) Need (30 points)

   The proposal demonstrates that the district is currently unable to fully implement a recycling program due to issues related to finance, staffing, or facilities.

2. 2) Quality of the Plan (40 points)

   1. A) The proposal demonstrates that the program to be implemented is based on sound research and can be reasonably accomplished based on projected timelines, resources, staff, and facilities.
   2. B) The proposal demonstrates quantifiable goals for the eligible entity.
   3. C) The proposal acknowledges the central role of qualified staff who will oversee the program.

3. 3) Capacity and Sustainability (30 points)

   1. A) The proposal is sustainable as it identifies a plan for allocating district resources, as well as securing additional resources from local organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies that will be useful to the grantee in sustaining a recycling program.
   2. B) The proposal is cost effective. The proposed budget is reasonable based on the scope of the planning work to be conducted and the number of individuals to be involved.