Discontent with Okotoks’ new automated garbage collection system is growing, but council should not be swayed from its objective.
A group of residents are circulating a petition asking the Town of Okotoks to increase the size of the garbage bins, which are currently 120 litres. The arguments from the signatories is the bins are simply too small especially for larger families.
The petition is gaining some support with more than 300 signatures already.
However, what the petition is asking the Town to do is abandon its original goal of reducing the amount of waste going to the landfill.
Prior to the automated garbage system being implemented Okotoks families were permitted to put out two bags of garbage each week or 200 litres.
Although Okotokians are being asked to reduce the amount of garbage they put at the curb each week the Town has expanded its options to make the task easier.
Okotoks also introduced curbside recycling, the cut and call program for grass clippings and the Salvage Centre is an excellent option for larger unwanted items.
In addition, families are allowed a second 120-litre bin at an additional cost.
Despite the options available to Okotoks families it is clear there is still a number of homeowners not satisfied with the automated collection system.
Council should heed the petition, but rather than capitulate, it would be better to compromise.
During its most recent survey the overwhelming majority of Okotokians were satisfied with the new garbage system.
In addition, allowing two 120-litre bins actually undermines the goal of reducing waste as it would equal 240-litres per household, more than what was permitted before.
Therefore, as a compromise, Okotoks should indeed offer homeowners a choice, they can maintain the current 120-litre bin or request a 180-litre bin at an additional charge, perhaps $5 per month.
Also, the Town should look at expanding its curbside recycling program. More specifically, offer larger bins. Currently, families can ask for additional bins at no extra charge, but larger bins simply makes more sense.
The Foothills landfill has a finite lifespan and Okotoks is asking its residents to make every effort to reduce waste, which is a must.
However, perhaps there is some wiggle room when it comes to throwing out the trash
