City of Helena proposes major changes to recycling system

By  Paul Ploumis 18 Sep 2015  Last updated at 05:55:28 GMT

The City of Helena has proposed major changes to its curbside collection system. The changes are expected to come into effect from early-2016.

HELENA (Scrap Monster): The City of Helena plans to implement changes to its citywide curbside recycling program.

The new program will require residents to separate the recyclables, instead of dropping all the recyclables into one container. In addition, the residents will need to pay for recycling services.

The proposed recycling program will require tin and aluminum cans to be collected in one container and plastics-type one and two in another container. Residents should use a third container for dropping paper waste. Cardboards for collection must be placed under this container. The city plans to buy new containers before end-2015. Glass will not form part of curbside collection system and has to be dropped at the transfer station.

The new recycling system may cost residents nearly $10 to $11 per month. The rates are likely to get further subsidized. The fee will be collected through city utility bills. The city has expressed willingness to discuss the new recycling modalities with other companies. Those who are interested to provide recycling services could approach the city, said City Manager Ron Alles.

The new program is likely to commence during early-2016.

The huge drop in market for single stream commodities has forced Helena Recycling to ditch single stream recycling services. In addition, Pacific Steel, the only agency that handles the collected material will be unable to handle the rising volume of disposables collected through single-stream curbside recycling program. Further, Helena Recycling proposes to implement subscription-based pilot recycling services to develop awareness among residents.