Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, February 24, 1993 TAG: 9302240260
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B3 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: DANIEL MARKHAM LANDMARK NEWS SERVICE
DATELINE: BEDFORD LENGTH: Medium
BEDFORD ENACTS LAW ON RECYCLING
What is being touted as one of the most progressive trash recycling laws in the state was enacted Tuesday by Bedford City Council after a public hearing in which only one citizen spoke."The city of Bedford is on the forefront of recycling. We're really light years ahead of other communities," City Manager Jack Gross said.
The law will go into effect April 1 and has a six-month learning period, during which citizens who are not recycling will receive written notice. After the six months, $10 fines will be imposed on violators.
"We envision not only putting notes on the cans, but also talking with people about this," Gross said.
Radio and newspaper ads will attempt to educate city residents about the new law. The law does not cover apartment buildings.
Mary Boise of South Street was the only person to come to the podium at the hearing.
"I really applaud the city and its recycling effort," Boise said. "I know there's other people like myself who live in apartments who would like the opportunity to recycle."
Council members joined in praising the program.
"We're all proud of the effort, and we want you to know the council is 100 percent behind you," Council member Skip Tharp said to the committee that sponsored the bill.
"I'm delighted we've gotten this for Bedford," Vice Mayor James Vest said. "I hate to see us stop here. Now I'd like to see us go on to retail and industry."
Gross urged council members to cautiously consider the future."It's important for us to determine what our costs are. If we go into this too fast the markets may dry up. We don't want to collect this and then just put it in the landfill."
Bedford city has purchased 800 recycling bins and will purchase 1,200 more containing sections for clear and colored glass, newspapers and recyclable plastic. Under the plan, every other trash collection day will be for recycling.