George Roberts, representative from USA Hauling, reported that the measure often increases recycling in the communities where it is introduced. In recycling tonnage, Avon has seen a 18% increase, Hartford a 41% increase and Portland a 126% increase since the implementation of single stream collection.
“If Torrington sees the same increase as Hartford you are going to be saving 800 tons of garbage over the year,” Roberts said.
Jerry Rollett, director of Public Works, said that there is a significant need for more recycling in Torrington, an area that several residents lack in.
Roberts has also reported that the city residents have expressed an interest in more recycling.
Mayor Ryan Bingham said USA Hauling’s contract lists at $2.06 million per year, and the contract allows for possible cancellation each year.
One subject that was discussed, but not settled, was what to do about bulky trash. Bingham said the council plans on discussing a method for the removal of certain bulky trash, such as old couches and refrigerators at the next meeting.
Bingham said that the city currently provides a weekly collection of bulky items, but with the new contract that number can be lessened to maybe twice a year or four times a year.
