Dear editor,
Yes, there will be a referendum Nov. 16 putting forward a unified contract for weekly garbage and unlimited recycling pickup in the electoral areas.
The winner of the three PRIVATE company bidding process was a contract at $150 per household for three years with a further one-year option. After that it will go back out for bid to the collection companies.
I realize that it isn't for everybody but the sheer economies of scale will mean a reduction in their current cost for the vast majority of residents.
The other benefit is in regards to the MMBC rebate program whereby some of the "eco-fees" we pay at point of purchase will be coming back to help districts pay for the recycling process. In order to apply and receive rebates, the local government has to "own" the service.
While the municipalities can already apply in the first stage of the rebate program, the CVRD hopes to have all its ducks in a row and ready for any subsequent offers.
We are anticipating that the recycling portion of the pickup will help us to achieve 70 per cent diversion from what goes in to the landfill — thus extending the life of the facility and saving costs for the future.
Again, it is a question that will be answered by referendum and I encourage everyone to vote.
Edwin Grieve,
Comox Valley
Editor's note: Edwin Grieve is the Comox Valley Regional District chair and director for Area C.