OLATHE, Kan. – A city spokesman says the City of Olathe is proposing a recycling option for all customers as a part of the solid waste service. It would save the Kansas City suburb lots of money.
“It’s just a dollars and cents simple business issue,” said Tim Dannenburg, spokesman for the City of Olathe.
At Olathe’s Community Recycling Center, Jennifer Sheafer is already in the habit.
“I bring cardboard and plastics two or three times a week,” Sheafer said. “I have six kids and we have a lot of trash.”
With such a large family, Sheafer feels bad dumping all her trash in landfills. Soon, she may not have a choice.
Olathe is considering a recycling program. They own Olathe Solid Waste and pay $30 a ton to use a landfill. Space is not scarce, but adding a recycling option will increase capacity. If the proposal is passed, everyone in the city will foot the bill. But those who currently recycle would pay less than those who do not.
“I think it’s a good idea,” Sheafer said.
Olathe council members agree. However, some have concerns about serving seniors and people with disabilities who may struggle carrying bins curbside.
Dannenburg said city staff is working on solutions, including creating bins with wheels.
“That’s something that we’re still exploring,” Dannenburg said. “We’ll see what the cost is, what the impact would be overall and what’s a fair and equitable way to provide that service.”
There is an overriding factor, Dannenburg said.
