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Dough Gowanlock Although the recommendation to eliminate the
three 'free dump days' in Saugeen Shores was passed, it was not without
considerable discussion.
"I was not here when this was brought forward," said Vice Deputy Mayor,
Doug Gowanlock, "and you know how I feel about it. I fought this once
before and I'm not about to let it rest."
According to Gowanlock, the free days are something that rural people,
in particular, use. "People who live in the country have no garbage
pick-up and we've also done away with the commercial service. These
people can't go to the dump every week and so they save things up and
use the free days. Now, that's been done away with and I suggest we come
up with other ways to something about this."
The elimination of the free days is expected to increase revenue by
$25,000 which will then be used for fluorescent bulb and Styrofoam
waste. (next column)
13/01/2009 04:18 PM
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(continued)
"Somehow," Gowanlock pointed out, "we need to get this
back. Taking $25,000 out because the commercial guys are abusing it, we
are giving it right back to them as they are the biggest users of
fluorescent bulbs and styrofoam. Also, the free dump days were used by
various groups that did roadside clean-ups in the spring."
Bill Jones, Director of Public Works, explained that if
a group does a roadside clean-up there is no charge to them. He also
said that he has not problem with trying to come up with alternatives.
"We can look at options such as reducing site days or making exceptions
for agricultural waste. We could look at different ideas during budget
time."
Councillor, Luke Charbonnea, added that, "It's time we address this
issue of 60,000 tons coming in over the three free days. I am also
hearing that the public is saying give us more options for recycling."
"I remember that it was about 14 years ago that Southampton implemented
free dump days," said Councillor Thead Seaman. "It was a chance for
people to clear out possible fire hazards from their attics, basements
and garages."
Mayor Mike Smith said that the free dump days are an opportunity for
people to clean up their properties in spring and fall. However, almost
20% of the solid waste goes into the landfill on those free days."
"People should also be aware that these (fluorescent and Styrofoam) are
not curb-side pick-ups. People will have to bring them to the landfill
site where there will be depots."
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