MADISONVILLE, KY (WFIE) -
The city of Madisonville is trying to make recycling easier for residents.
City Officials have approved a new single stream, curbside recycling program.
City Officials tell 14 News they'll be the first city in western Kentucky to implement this type of program and Friday, they sorted out some details before they launch later this fall.
A single stream, curbside recycling program. It sounds confusing, but city officials say it could be a new trend in western Kentucky.
"I think we're going to be the poster child. I think a lot of cities are going to be looking at us to see how well we do with it," said Sanitation Superintendent Robert Janes.
Janes says before residents had to personally deliver their recyclables to the convenience centers. Now, the process is much simpler.
"It's as easy as one, two, three. You take it from your home, to the recycling toter, to the curb. It's cold mingled, we'll sort it when it gets down to my facility," Janes told 14 News.
Those who participate will get a new recycling toter with a brown lid, different from the all green garbage toters. Mayor David Jackson says having this pickup on a bi-weekly schedule could also financially benefit the city.
"A program like this, it's going to save on fuel costs, it will save tipping fees and these costs can ultimately be passed onto our customers," Mayor Jackson said.
When the idea was first introduced, there were plans to implement a two dollar monthly fee for those who don't recycle, but Friday, the city decided that wasn't the best idea.
"There were some grumblings about it, so we just kind of said 'Let's back off and let's measure in six months and see where we're at as far as financials and participation,'" Janes said.
The city recognizes that participation is key. It's been successful in other cities across the nation who are seeing a 70-80% participation rate after two or three years.
"I think people today really understand the need for recycling and they understand the benefits to our community," Mayor Jackson said.
Voluntary sign ups will begin on July 1st and the program will get underway on October 1st.
To learn more about the iRecycle program, you can e-mail questions to irecycle@madisonvillegov.com or call City Hall at (270) 824-2100
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It sounds confusing, but city officials say it could be a new trend in western Kentucky.
