Come July, eight recycling bins should be visible downtown.
The bins will be two-stream, paper and bottles, said city director of engineering Rob Niewenhuizen.
“They will be collected by the existing Progressive Waste contracting and will go into our recycling stream.”
He said locations would include Alexander Street, the Ross Street parking lot, possibly Shuswap Mall on Lakeshore, Marine Park, McGuire Lake and Fletcher Park.
At council’s March 13 meeting, Coun. Chad Eliason said he hated to question the bins after they’ve been selected, but predicted some people would break into the locked bins to steal the bottles. He questioned why they’re the locking variety. Eliason estimated it could cost the city $300 to $500 each time the bins are vandalized. He also noted that this makes the bottles inaccessible to people who depend on collecting them.
Niewenhuizen said city staff have been working closely with Downtown Salmon Arm on placement and structure.
Eliason suggested placing rings around the outside of the city’s other garbage cans, like some communities do, so people would still be able to take the bottles.
“We could convert waste, have less damage and let people do what they do. This way we’re taking away an income stream.”
Coun. Ken Jamieson agreed.
Coun. Louise Wallace Richmond asked about the displays contemplated for the bins.
Niewenhuizen said Downtown Salmon Arm would take over that job.
“From a professional standpoint,” Wallace Richmond said, “I would caution against over-decorating.”
Coun. Alan Harrison said he’d like to support city staff and the DSA’s plan, for now.
“I think we’re one step away from the finish line… Maybe we’ll be surprised, the process might work.”
Eliason said he would support the plan, but would like staff to check on putting rings around the other cans.
Coun. Kevin Flynn pointed out there are several metal fabrication businesses in town who might be able to revamp the other bins.