City should give residents a curbside-recycling discount

Re: “City-funded blue bins are not the only option,” LTE Dec. 16

Dear Editor,

I have to agree with Grant Harrison’s regarding the blue bins. I, too, have experienced an extremely busy recycling depot any time I have gone, as well I have been at the Westside depot on several occasions when the bins are overflowing, thus leading me to the conclusion that Airdrie residents recycle plenty. I have to agree that imposing a curbside recycling program ignores the role of private businesses performing this service and it takes away from our freedom as residents to choose how to do our recycling. I’ve had the opportunity to use a business in Airdrie that provides curbside recycling and I appreciated their services immensely. I had the opportunity of using the blue bins in Cochrane and they aren't completely convenient, there are some things that aren’t accepted, thus warranting a trip to the depot anyway. A city as large as Airdrie couldn’t possibly provide this service as cheap as the Town on Cochrane. What I think the City should do is provide Airdrie residents with a discount on their bi-monthly utilities, with proof of curbside recycling; this would prevent residents from paying two recycling fees, but would also allow the City some of the money it needs to continue to keep the depot running.

Honestly, though, it doesn’t matter what recycling measures we put out there (curbside, reduced fees, two bag limits), those who aren’t recycling now, aren’t going to recycle later.

Sarah Stilborn, Airdrie