The city's Recycling Committee--which also examines trash and garbage issues--is in need of more citizen volunteers; there has not been a quorum present at recent meetings.
Tasked with examining several nagging issues last winter--once weekly garbage pick-up to save money; alterative possible garbage fee hike on residents; recycling's chronic money-losing and the city's planned participation (in about 2 years) in the county recycling program; the impending closing of the city's landfill (its about full), et al.-- the Committee still hasn't come up with any concrete recommendations for the Council's consideration.
When the city landfill closes, all refuse will have to be hauled to the county landfill in Magnolia Springs (or elsewhere), at considerably higher costs (transportation, fuel, "tipping" fees). Recycled material has been "stacking up" at the Public Works Facility as well (apparently because the "market" for it has dried up). The county's new Team Green recycling facility at Magnolia Springs wont be ready for at least a year and a half.
Last summer the City of Daphne reduced their garbage pick-up to once a week, (saving their citizens $600,000/year-- according to media reports); but some Fairhope citizens/officials oppose that here because it may "smell bad."
In private, other frustrated Officials call it the "Do Nothing" Committee and complain about its chronic "foot dragging."
Anyone with interest in joining /ideas are asked to contact City Hall.
[Note: As an alternative, it has been suggested letting the Environmental Advisory Board take over recycling/trash/garbage responsibilities as well]
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