The Editor, Re: "When equal doesn't equal fairness," column, June 4. I am pleased to clarify the city's policies and fees for garbage collection. Our garbage and recycling collection fees are structured to ensure that the total revenue generated from all sources equals the cost of garbage and recycling services provided by the city.
The city recognizes that residents generate different volumes of garbage. We are currently evaluating various incentives relating to userpay approaches. This includes a six-month garbage pilot program started this spring to evaluate weekly versus biweekly garbage collection, as well as other options to reduce the amount of garbage and offset increasing costs.
Locally and regionally, we are in the midst of changes to our entire system for collection of garbage with a premium on reduction and diversion, as well as cost control. We are engaging with stakeholders in reviewing possible changes to the system and will keep our residents and businesses informed as we move forward.
Metro Vancouver's and Richmond's overarching objective is to divert 70 per cent of the waste stream.
Household charges for garbage and recycling collection services vary based on services available to different customer types, i.e. singlefamily homes, townhomes or apartments. Included may be weekly garbage and large item pick up, blue box, blue cart, green cart and environmental protection. Most apartment buildings secure their garbage service from private contractors so utility bills are adjusted accordingly.
City garbage collection service for residents is restricted to two containers or bags of garbage per pick-up, with extra fees for more containers.
Recent increases in costs are mainly due to the introduction of new recycling services to meet pending regional disposal bans.
For example, organic waste such as yard trimmings and food scraps will not be accepted as regular garbage beginning next year.
Increases also support new services, such as the large item collection program.
Malcolm D. Brodie Mayor of Richmond Malcolm D. Brodie Mayor of Richmond
