12 December 2009 Gem Lake News - Laserfiche WebLink

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Gem Lake News Page 3 of 6 The City of Gem Lake has negotiated a new recycling contract with Waste Management. As part of this contract, all households will be able to use a new 64 gallon (or larger) "single sort" recycling container, which was recently delivered to each Gem Lake household. The cart is green with a hinged yellow lid and wheels in order to distinguish it clearly from any other waste containers that you may have. Gem Lake’s recycling contractor has delivered the new bin to allow you to throw all recycling into one large container. The hope is that the process will be more convenient and will result in more recycling and less trash for the local landfill. The decision to move to “single sort” recycling was made at the November 17 Gem Lake City Council meeting at Heritage Hall. Although the move will cost a few dollars more for each household, the benefits outweigh the extra cost, according to the council. “We want to do everything possible to move towards “greener” city policies,” says Gem Lake Mayor Bob Uzpen. “Single sort” recycling programs have been shown to increase household participation levels in surrounding cities.” According to Waste Management, only about 40% of Gem Lake households have been putting out their recycling under the current program. However, when nearby Vadnais Heights went to “single sort” containers, their household participation recycling increased from about 50% to nearly 80%. It is hoped that the same increase can occur in Gem Lake. ”Single Sort" Recycling Comes to Gem Lake Although the bins will be different, the recycling materials will continue to be collected every other week on Wednesdays. The first “single sort” pick up will be December 30, 2009. Here are some tips for using the new program: • Break down the cardboard boxes to fit inside the container. • Avoid placing plastic bags as liners inside the cart. • Place all recyclables into the new green and yellow cart, including containers, paper, glass, metal, loose cardboard, etc. All recyclables can be mixed together. • Recycle carts must be placed curbside to be emptied. There are some items that should not be placed in your “single sort” container. They include garbage, food waste, diapers, paper plates, wax paper, plastic bags, Styrofoam packaging, window glass, freezer food packaging, mirrors, light bulbs, take- out food packaging and meat or dairy plastic or paper packaging. After 90 days of using the 64 gallon container, you have the option of getting a larger or smaller container, based on your volume of recycling. To obtain a different container, you would call Waste Management at 952-890- 1100. For individuals who leave town during the winter months, adjustments in service are possible and will save the city money. Gem Lake City Secretary Jean Reiter will provide a list to Waste Management of households that do not need service during various months, and in return Waste Management will credit Gem Lake's recycling bill. For more information, contact Jean at 651-747-2790.