Communication can help reduce a lot of trash talk. The Town of Okotoks and residents in Mountainview and Woodhaven, while still hashing out details, have calmed the muddy waters after people in those areas found out they would be part of a pilot project for getting their garbage pickup once every two weeks. All parties agree there is an environmental need — both locally and globally — to reduce the amount of garbage going into landfills. However residents, rightfully, felt initially the Town was somewhat heavy-handed when the homeowners received virtually no notification about the pilot project. A meeting was held between the Town and some of the residents — where the Town received a petition of more than 650 signatures. The Town, to its credit, apologized for the lack of communication. There are still concerns such as what if a homeowner misses his garbage pickup and the pressure put on larger families, especially those facing a battle with diapers. The key word is pilot. The process can be adjusted before getting the final stamp of approval. The Town has indicated there are other pilot projects concerning garbage pickup in Okotoks. A lesson has been learned — get quick and early communication out to those affected, to reduce the waste of ill feelings and disagreements with residents.
