County compacts recycling program

Nevada Daily Mail

The Vernon County Commission and Recycling Center are rearranging several recycling receptacles throughout the county.

David Irwin, manager of the Vernon County Recycling Center, said that he is looking into adding additional recycling dumpsters around the Nevada Square. At least two containers for cardboard recycling will be added, on the east and west sides of the Square near parking areas.

Irwin said there is no definitive time for placing the bins because the county must still price out and purchase the receptacles.

A recycling bin for paper will be added at the courthouse for public use, and is expected to be in place within the next several weeks. There are currently 15 paper and cardboard recycling receptacles located around Nevada for business and individual use.

The County Commission has decided to discontinue the recycling trailer program for county communities. The program gave cities outside Nevada access to a trailer-style recycling receptacle, which traveled north to south throughout the county visiting the different communities. Residents were able to deposit recyclable items during stops in the area.

Northern Commissioner Neal Gerster said that the few residents participating in the program has led the county to consider removing the service.

"It's so minimal that what's gathered isn't even enough to pay for the fuel to pick it up," he said.

In a letter to the cities of Bronaugh, Schell City, Walker and Moundville dated Feb. 5, the county commission announced thav while this program will be discontinued, there is interest in creating alternative programs.

"At this time, we wish to ask you to consider having a recycling dumpster/trailer be placed in your community for a longer period, as this will also save tax payer dollars, to process the material as needed," the letter said.

Presiding Commissioner Bonnie McCord said that Sheldon's recent recycling program plans have influenced the decision.

The city of Sheldon received a grant earlier this year that allows them to create a citywide recycling plan. The grant, awarded through Region M Solid Waste Management District, will help the city purchase a recycling trailer and pay for a part-time employee to manage recycling work.

McCord said that it is her hope other cities in the county will use Sheldon as an example to set up similar recycling programs.

In its letter to the cities, the commission offered assistance for regions interested in obtaining a grant to start a recycling program. Cities interested in placing a recycling trailer in the community were also encouraged to contact the commission.