The Municipality of North Cowichan is looking for public input as it considers changes to its curbside garbage, recycling and kitchen waste collection.
The municipality is considering a change from manual collection, where workers lift and dump waste carts into trucks, to an automated collection system, where trucks equipped with mechanical arms lift and empty carts.
The change will reduce work-related injuries to collectors, who lift between 3.5 and 5.2 tonnes of garbage per day.
The municipality’s four garbage trucks are set to be replaced in the next few years, offering an opportunity to make the service switch.
The automated system can expand the services made available to residents, including yard waste collection and larger garbage carts.
“We want to hear what the community thinks about this proposed change because we know it will have an impact on our residents,” said Deputy Mayor Rosalie Sawrie.
“Waste collection is a critical service, and delivering it efficiently and safely is essential. Council will consider the input from residents, along with operational planning and financial factors, when the topic is discussed later this year.”
The current cost of curbside waste collection per household is $111 per year. An automated system would cost between $168 and $182.
People can register to attend two online information sessions offered, 7 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 31 and noon to 1 p.m. on Sept. 2.
• For more information and to fill out the survey, go to northcowichan.ca/curbsidesurvey. Questions can be emailed to curbsidesurvey@northcowichan.ca.
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