Wed Feb 08 2012
by Jeff Saunders
Reporter
Macedonia -- At least a few city residents say they would be willing to pay more for curbside recycling.
"We use the recycling bins at the recreation center, but many people in the area do not because it is not convenient," said Park Ridge Lane resident Jin Sunwook.
He was one of four city residents, three in favor of curbside recycling, who spoke to City Council June 25.
"Most of us are in favor of it," said River Run Drive resident Rhonda Anderson, a member of the Lake Forest Homeowner's Association.
"When I moved here from Atlanta about a year ago, I was shocked we didn't have a curbside program," she said.
The recycling discussion is a part of the intention of Council to enter into a five-year rubbish pickup contract. Three companies, Republic Waste, Waste Management and J&J Refuse submitted bids.
Unlimited rubbish collection with curbside recycling would cost $12.80 per month in the contract's first year under Republic Waste's low bid.
That's about $1 more per month than rubbish collection with drop-off recycling at the rec center.
Rod Coyle of Republic said offering curbside recycling can increase recycling participation from 15 to 20 percent of households to 50 percent.
"It's very convenient and allows a lot more people to participate," he said.
Bradford Drive resident Chuck Loparo, however, questioned whether senior citizens would recycle since many may not be able to get the 18-gallon recycling bins described by Coyle to the street.
"How do they get it from their back yard to the front yard?" he asked.
And Waste Management representative Tony Discenza disputed Coyle's assertion that curbside recycling increases participation. He said "recycling is a matter of habit" and drop-off recycling can be effective.
"What it takes is an education program," said Discenza. "Drop-off recycling, when people get used to it, is a very easy thing to do."
Elizabeth Lane resident Lee Knicely said, however, that he and his family still believe curbside recycling will encourage more residents, including seniors, to recycle.
"We're certainly in favor of curbside recycling to enhance recycling in the city," he said.
J&J Refuse representative Scott Walter said that if the city elects to remain with drop-off recycling, he believes J&J is more than competitive because it is not charging for pickup at city facilities such as city hall and the rec center.
"We do consider ourselves the lowest bidder [for drop-off recycling]," said Walter.
Republic and Waste Management would bill the city $21,528 and $25,346 per year, respectively, to pick up municipal garbage.
The majority of Council members have said they are hesitant about asking residents to pay for curbside recycling in a recession. Councilors say they may come to a decision at their July 9 meeting.
"We are very carefully evaluating this decision," said Councilor Peggy Spraggins.
E-mail: jsaunders@recordpub.com
Phone: 330-688-0088 ext. 3169
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