Columbia continues routine recycling pick up as officials look for alternatives
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
City of Columbia utility crews were back out on the streets picking up trash and blue recycling bags this morning despite recycling processing being suspended following an EF-1 tornado.
The plans were announced last week with the plan of helping residents continue their trash and recycling routine even with both recycling and trash going to the landfill.
"This will help minimize the changes when the city is able to resume its full recycling program," Columbia Utilities spokesperson Jason West said in a statement. "It helps maintain employment for the drivers and staff who work on those trucks."
West adds that recycling costs haven't been adjusted since recycling is a free program that is provided as an addition to residential curbside collection.
According to the City of Columbia, monthly collection rates range from $12.87 for a 35-gallon roll cart and $22.50 for a 95-gallon roll cart.
"Only the size of the rollcart affects that fee," West said. "Recycling collection has been and continues to be a free service for those residents who choose to participate."
West also acknowledges the environmental impact and emphasizes that the city is working to find a solution. One idea is to use the facilities in Jefferson City.
Recycling drop-off locations will also remain closed indefinitely. West said this was done to prevent the bins from becoming overloaded.
Locations in Jefferson City and Boonville are accepting recyclables.
- New World Recycling at 2007 Idlewood Road in Jefferson City
- Gold Star Recycling at 605 Empire Dr. in Jefferson City
- Boonslick Industries Inc. at 1620 W. Ashley Road in Boonville
- Daniel's Recycling at 503 2nd St. in Boonville
