Residential Waste Management & Recycling Survey
Spring 2008
With oil and gas prices climbing and the costs for transportation-oriented services increasing dramatically, it is not a surprise that East Rockhill residents feel they pay too much for trash and recycling services. Indicative of the pervasive need to reduce costs where possible is the fact that over 70% of the respondents are interested in trying a single-hauler, municipally contracted service if it will save them money.
East Rockhill Township is considered by the State Department of Environmental Protection to be a “mandated community,” required under Act 101 of 1988 and Act 140 of 2005. The means all private haulers must offer weekly trash collection and a minimum of bi-weekly recycling collection as well as provide for the collection of source separated yard waste. The law also requires East Rockhill Township residents to have trash and recycling collection service and prohibits the burning or co-mingling of yardwaste with trash. Township Ordinances No. 234 and No. 239 reinforce those DEP mandates. (See Ordinances).
Currently, East Rockhill Township achieves compliance with the yardwaste regulations by offering a drop-off center for yardwaste and by providing a spring curbside collection of yardwaste and fall collection of leaves. While the survey indicates that this service is not needed or desired, the fact is that it is required by DEP.
Based on the survey results, the township now plans to apply for a technical assistance grant to create a program that will enlarge the township’s existing trash district that currently benefits from a municipally bid contract that prohibits cost increases other than those contracted in 2006. While the survey has been completed, residents are encouraged to continue to share their thoughts and suggestions on this worthy subject, and can do so by e-mailing the Township Manager at manager@eastrockhilltownship.org. Discussion and development of the single hauler program will take place over the next 6 to 8 months.
