New refuse contract highlights slightly lower bills

The village of Lombard recently renegotiated its refuse contract with Waste Management. The new contract takes effect April 1 and residents may notice that their bill is a little less.

“The monthly collection fees will decrease from their current levels partly because of a charge to pay for the resident's toter has been removed,” explained Dave Gorman, assistant director of public works. “The toters have been paid off so that charge has ended, which results in lower bills for residents,” he added.

Refuse collection will continue to utilize the current toters but now all residents have the option of replacing their 64-gallon toter with a smaller, less costly, 35-gallon toter. Residents are reminded to place toters on the driveway apron, not in the road. Anyone wishing to switch the size of his toter should contact Waste Management directly at (800) 769-9696.

Other highlights of the new contract include:

REFUSE

• Additional cans or bags require a $1.30 refuse sticker.

• Flat fees will remain unchanged for bulk materials ($20), backdoor service ($22), waste tires ($5), special collections ($10/cubic yard) and white goods ($25.)

RECYCLING

• Recycling will continue in the same manner as previously collected, using the same blue toters and on the same collection day as refuse. Again, residents have the option of trading in the 64-gallon toter for a small 35-gallon toter to save on space. Please note: There is no reduction in cost for a smaller recycling toter. Anyone wishing to switch to a small toter, please contact Waste Management.

• Acceptable items for recycling include aluminum; glass and iron/steel food and beverage containers; plastics labeled #1 through #6 and cardboard and paper without wax liners. Comingling of recyclables is still allowed.

• Recycling of the following items is not allowed and will cause contamination to the collection: #7 or unnumbered plastics (including plastic bags); tempered glass (including mirrors, windows, cooking glassware and light bulbs); ceramics & porcelain; and tempered steel (including coat hangers, pots, pans and household appliances.)

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

Chemicals and other household hazardous waste may be dropped off, free of charge, at the Naperville Fire Station 4, 1979 Brookdale Road. Latex paints may be opened until dried and then disposed with normal household refuse.