Waste Management to present recycling proposal Feb. 28

Winslow could go to a curb side recycling program, according to Kathy Mitchell, a representative from Waste Management, but it would not be at no charge.

Mitchell told the city council during a work session last week that there were two ways for the city to begin a recycling program, a curb side pick up, or community trailers.

There are presently several trailers throughout the community, but due to spatial issues, as well as timing, many residents do not take advantage of these existing trailers.

When it was asked how much a curb side program would cost, Mitchell explained she could not tell the council then because she needed to know the exact number of homes.

Mitchell told the council if a curb side program was introduced in Winslow, there would still be two dump days a week, one for trash and one for recyclables.

Another reason the city is having issues with the present trailers, is that they are limited by capacity and man hours to empty the trailers.

If Waste Management were to place community trailers, it would take some of the load off the city.

Councilwoman Maribelle Ogilvie asked if the program could be phased in by neighborhoods.

Mitchell explained that the city could not be broken down, because it would be costly. She added that metropolitan areas are phased in, but it has never been tried in a smaller town.

"We could try a pilot program, but it wouldn't be cost effective," she noted.

Ogilvie said she would like to see recycling added to the school district curriculum, noting that children could pressure parents to recycle.

"I think this would be a good first step to changing our (Winslow's) image," said Ogilvie.

Mitchell noted that schools are always helpful, and she would be willing to hold presentations at Winslow schools.

"Education is the biggest factor," Mitchell noted.

Mitchell will present a proposal for curb side programs at the Feb. 28 council meeting.