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TEAM ASSEMBLED TO ZERO - IN ON SUSTAINABILITY PLAN
A new team of City staff, leaders and community members is hard at work, plotting a way forward toward a zero-waste plan for Westerville. “Creating a zero-waste plan is no small task, but this team is up for the challenge. We’re incredibly grateful for these volunteers who care and want to help create a more sustainable future for Westerville,” said Kevin Weaver, Westerville Public Service Director. The work to develop the plan is 80% covered by a $30,000 grant from the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO), reducing the burden on the City’s refuse/recycling fund. According to SWACO, more than 75% of items sent to the landfill could be reused, recycled or composted. The plan will center on strategies to reduce the amount of waste sent to the landfill, including programs and community education. The team will create the plan through a multi-phase approach, establishing goals, researching current conditions and then recommending best practices for the Westerville community.
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HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO PARTICIPATE! Join the effort to “go green” at home. Consider composting: www.westerville.org/ composting and learn how to “Recycle Right” at www. westerville.org/recycling.
Get updates from the Westerville Green team at www.westerville. org/zerowaste.
CURBSIDE COLLECTION CONUNDRUM Rumpke Addressing Service Delays
It’s no secret the COVID-19 pandemic has had a far-reaching impact on community programs including curbside yard waste, trash and recycling. It became more evident this year, as residents experienced frequent collection delays. Rumpke Waste & Recycling, the City’s contractor, is working to overcome a number of challenges that have resulted in these delays including increased resident output, staff shortages and scheduling issues. They’re looking to residents to help ensure a smoother weekly program. Rumpke is taking measures to address these issues, including implementing equipment changes and diverting some trucks when necessary. The company is asking residents take the following steps to help their teams complete their tasks efficiently: Break down cardboard boxes. 50 lbs.
Make sure trash containers or bags do not exceed the 50 lb. limit.
Place material in a highly visible location.
Please do not dispose of any hazardous material such as batteries, paint, propane or helium tanks in your trash or recycling.
If your collection is missed, please leave it at the curb for the next day collection. If it is not collected by 12 p.m. the following day, contact the Westerville Public Service Department at (614) 901-6740 or publicservice@ westerville.org or submit a service request on the TellWesterville app. 15
