06-02-2005 South Bend’s Automated Closed Container Program – Final Distribution

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South Bend's Automated Closed Container Program—Final Distribution Page 1 of 2 � v%• 'Building a 21St Century City " ' rs Stephen J. Luecke, Mayor RELEASE FROM: FOR RELEASE: Office of the Mayor Thursday, June 2, 2005 South Bend's Automated Closed Container Program — Final Distribution The City of South Bend has begun the final phase of distribution of its new trash containers. Over the next 6-8 weeks, approximately 28,000 containers will be delivered to residences throughout the City. The program was first piloted two years ago, and residents have been pleased with the positive impact the new system has had on their neighborhoods. In developing its new trash collection technology,the City had a number of goals in mind: • Keeping costs down • Encouraging recycling and in turn reducing the amount of trash going into our landfill • Creating a cleaner, more attractive City by reducing trash and litter in neighborhoods. Utilizing new technology, Solid Waste trucks are now equipped with a robotic arm that can be operated by one person. This results in a reduction in staff and the added efficiency has also reduced overtime costs. The 2005 overtime budget, so far this year, is 50% less than for the same period in 2004, and the cost for seasonal help is down by $5,000. The new automated equipment is expected to reduce injuries and their related costs. Each household will receive a 96-gallon container, although senior citizens or smaller families may request a 48-gallon container by calling the Bureau of Solid Waste at 277-8823. Residents are encouraged to allow time to test the size of the container to determine what best meets their needs. Most importantly, everyone is encouraged to recycle. By recycling, we reduce the amount of trash that goes to our landfill. Currently the number of South Bend residents that are recycling is approximately 55%. The City of South Bend's base rate for trash collection service is $8 per month. This rate is about half of the rate for trash collection in our area. While residents are encouraged to recycle to reduce the amount of trash going to the landfill, the City will provide additional containers to a household if they are needed. The cost will be $5 per month per additional container. The City's regular$8 per month base trash fee also continues to include: . Yard waste collection 1 large item pickup per month, including appliances The new containers also help build a cleaner, more attractive city. They are uniform in color and style and include an attached lid that keeps trash in and animals out. Residents are also reminded that all trash must be placed in the container. This will not only keep your neighborhood cleaner, it also enhances the efficiency of the one-person crew. http://www.ci.south-bend.in.us/Press/Releases 2005/060205 container.htm 1/13/2006