HomeMy WebLinkAboutA031 - Residential Curbside Recycling ProgramITEM #:31
DATE:11-18-25
DEPT:PW
SUBJECT:RESIDENTIAL CURBSIDE RECYCLING PROGRAM
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
O n August 12, 2025, staff presented a report to the City Council outlining the need for a
residential curbside recycling program in Ames. This followed the June 24, 2025 report to City
Council detailing conceptual design and financial modeling for a Resource Recovery and
Recycling Campus (R3C). The R3C represents a new approach for the disposal of municipal
solid waste (MSW) and is intended to receive solid waste, recyclables, and yard waste. Staff
continues to work with HDR Engineering and Story Construction Co. on design development
services with a goal to begin construction in spring 2026 and begin operating the facility in the
first half of 2027.
Robust recycling efforts are important to the community's future waste disposal
operations from both an environmental and financial standpoint. Increased recycling
aligns with the community's Climate Action Plan goals. Recycling requires less energy to
create products as compared to creating products from new raw materials.
In addition, recycling is a less costly alternative to landfilling in multiple ways. First, the
Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) charges landfills a fee for the disposal of MSW
on a per-ton basis. Under the City's agreement with Carroll County Landfill, any such fees
charged on the City's waste will be the City's responsibility to pay. The fee varies based on the
amount of waste that is diverted from the landfill. The more landfill diversion occurs, the lower
the per-ton fee.
Historically, Ames has accomplished significant landfill diversion through the waste-to-
energy process and recycling that occurs at the Resource Recovery Plant. As the City
transitions away from waste-to-energy, the City's waste diversion obligations must be
met through recycling.
The second manner in which recycling is less financially costly as compared to
landfilling relates to the lower cost to transport and tip recyclable materials at facilities
in Des Moines (~60 miles roundtrip) than to transport and tip those materials at the
Carroll County Landfill (~150 miles roundtrip). It also reduces the number of miles
driven and greenhouse gas emissions.
At the August 12, 2025 City Council meeting, staff was directed to obtain additional
public input regarding residential curbside recycling. Staff conducted a Curbside
Recycling Survey from September 2–30, 2025. The survey received 1,543 responses,
providing valuable insights into resident preferences, barriers, and expectations for a future
curbside recycling program.
A detailed report of survey results is provided in Attachment A: Curbside Recycling Survey
Results. Key findings from the survey include:
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Strong support for curbside recycling, with 92% indicating they would participate in the
program.
Cost concerns were the most frequently cited barrier (20% of respondents), alongside
space for bins (15%), and uncertainty about what can be recycled (8%).
Bin size and storage are practical concerns, with many (49%) requesting smaller cart
options.
Support for maintaining a central drop-off site for recyclables (74% support) and
community cardboard sites (71% support).
The August 12, 2025 staff report introduced the high level concepts of a residential curbside
recycling program. The report included four topics that would require Council direction.
Each topic is listed below with options and staff recommendations. A fifth topic, cart
size, has been added based on the survey results.
1. Level of Access
2. Provider
3. Cart Ownership
4. Frequency of Service
5. Cart Size
Issue1. Level of Access
Recycling participation rates vary significantly depending on the level of access, community
education and outreach efforts, and cultural factors. Nationwide averages are presented
below, based on data from studies conducted by the Recycling Partnership and the
Sustainable Packaging Coalition. The studies state that 75% of Iowans currently have access
to recycling, 44% through curbside and 31% through drop-off only. The figures below should
be used as rough, order-of-magnitude averages and not exact projections.
Level of
Access Description
Average
Participation
Rate
(households)
Average
Diversion Rate
(waste
tonnage)
a)
Curbside
universal
access
All eligible residents are charged for the service
and receive a recycling cart. This would result in
the highest diversion and participation rates.
However, this model presents the highest risk of
contamination due to the likelihood of some trash
being placed in the carts.
75%30%+
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b)
Curbside
universal
charge,
must opt-
in to
receive a
cart
All eligible residents are charged for the service
but must opt in to receive a cart. This model
would reduce contamination risks but also
reduce participation and diversion rates. While
many residents would opt in to receive a cart,
many residents would pay for a service they are
not using. This model also adds complexity in
coordinating cart delivery only to those who opt
in.
30% - 40%~10%
c)
Curbside
opt-in
Only residents who opt in will be charged for the
service and receive a cart. This would further
lower participation and waste diversion tonnage,
but only charge residents who sign up for the
service. Fees would increase relative to options
a and b, as costs would be spread among a
smaller rate base
20% - 30%~5%
d) Drop-off
site(s) only
Currently in place. Offering and managing
collection from drop-off locations would be the
only direct involvement from the City in recycling.
10%< 5%
Issue 1 Staff Recommendation: To achieve meaningful diversion of material from the
landfill, staff believes that drop-off only recycling (Option D) must be supplemented by a
broader recycling effort. Opt-in or v oluntary-only curbside collection programs (Options B and
C) are not expected to have a significant impact on the diversion of materials. In addition, most
similar-sized cities in Iowa provide universal access to curbside recycling (Option A) (see
Attachment B for more information about other recycling programs in Iowa). Therefore, staff
recommends Option A (universal access with all households provided a cart) to
achieve the community’s diversion goals.
Issue 2. Provider
For curbside residential collection, there are two alternatives for how a provider will deliver the
service:
a. City-wide contract with one provider. This approach would involve the City assuming
responsibility for coordinating curbside recycling. Residents would be charged a fee on
their Ames utilities bill. Only one contractor would provide service, minimizing truck traffic
and offering city-wide consistency. However, this approach would also eliminate the
ability to choose a service provider.
In this approach, fees per household for this service would likely be lower compared to
private contracting due to efficiencies gained by the scale of the program. This approach
also enables consistent education and messaging, coordinated by the City in partnership
with the selected contractor. A contract would require timely reporting and provide full
transparency into diversion and participation. The City would also require that all
recyclables be hauled to the R3C, ensuring full utilization of the facility.
Contractor services would not include any processing or final disposal of recyclables.
City staff would direct the contractor to deliver the material to the R3C (or other facility as
appropriate), and the disposal fees would be paid by the City and charged back to
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residents through the monthly billing charge.
b. Require existing haulers to offer curbside recycling as a service. There are nine
existing licensed haulers of MSW in Ames. Two of the haulers currently offer residential
curbside recycling. This approach requires less involvement from the City to establish
and manage the services, instead relying on the private market to handle recycling.
However, this approach would result in a higher volume of truck traffic, varying services,
and little ability for the City to track diversion rates. It may also result in pushback from
those haulers who do not have the resources to offer curbside recycling service.
Additionally, because recycling is not regulated in the same manner as solid waste,
haulers may choose not to utilize the R3C and directly haul recyclables to the Des
Moines area material recovery facilities. This could make it difficult for staff to accurately
measure the community's waste diversion efforts, and may result in residents
experiencing different rules for disposal depending on which hauler (and disposal
facility) ultimately handles their recycling.
Issue 2 Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends that proposals be solicited for a
City-wide contract with a single provider. This approach should result in lower fees,
consistent service and education messaging, minimizing truck traffic, diversion reporting, and
control over drop-off location.
Issue 3. Cart Ownership
Three models of cart ownership were identified to procure, finance, and maintain the
approximately 14,500 carts that would be needed for community-wide curbside recycling:
a. City-owned, contractor-procured: The contractor would furnish City-branded carts,
which are amortized over five years; after this period, the City assumes ownership.
Delivery, maintenance, and repair services are carried out by the contractor. This would
result in approximately $1 added cost per month, per household, for the contract term,
likely five years. Carts are expected to last 15-20 years. If the City engaged a new
contractor in the future, the carts would remain in place and be serviced by the new
contractor, making the potential transition to a new contractor quicker and less
disruptive.
b. City-owned, city-procured: The City would independently procure bins and deploy
them for the contractor to service. The cost of the carts would be financed through debt
service or a similar mechanism, costing approximately $900,000 in capital. Fees would
need to be calculated to repay the City for the investment in carts. Under this method,
the costs could be spread over up to ten years to align with the warranty, resulting in a
lower, but longer-lasting, monthly customer fee of approximately $0.50.
c. Contractor-owned: The contractor would deliver and retain ownership of all carts. This
approach results in the lowest up-front costs to launch the service, as the cost of carts
would not need to be financed by the customer charges. If the City switched contractors
in the future, significant costs and disruptions to service could occur during the transition
as carts are swapped with those of the new contractor. Additionally, with assets in place,
the existing contractor would hold an advantage in subsequent bids.
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Issue 3 Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends the City-owned, contractor-
procured option to obtain the carts. While there may be some benefit in terms of cost to
the City to obtaining the carts, there are added benefits for the City not needing to coordinate
between delivery of carts and ensuring that the carts are of the correct industry standard that
will work with the contractor's equipment. Additionally, this will allow the contractor to leverage
their industry contacts and ensure that the carts will be delivered and work on day one when
the program begins.
Issue 4. Frequency of Service
Curbside recycling programs typically operate weekly or every other week service. In an
every-other-week program, if customers generate excess recyclables, they could request an
additional bin (for a charge), and weekly pickup would not be available as an option.
a. Every other week service results in higher program efficiency through fuller bins and
fewer trips. According to the EPA, collection costs for every-other-week service are 20%-
40% lower than weekly collection. Many communities that have transitioned from weekly
to every other week schedules have not seen significant decreases in participation or
diversion rates. Larger carts (e.g., 96-gallon) would be necessary to accommodate the
longer time between pickups.
b. Weekly service could result in slightly higher diversion rates but would also mean
higher operational costs and increased truck traffic.
Issue 4 Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends every other week service. 72% of
survey respondents said every other week service would meet their needs, with 8% preferring
more frequent and 11% preferring less frequent service. Every other week service would meet
the community's need for recycling while keeping fees lower compared to weekly service.
Issue 5. Cart Size
This issue has been added for Council direction based on survey results. 63% of respondents
agreed that a 96-gallon cart would be adequate. A notable portion (34%) indicated that the
cart would be too large. In a separate question, 49% of survey respondents said they would
prefer an option for a smaller recycling cart.
a. A uniform, large cart size (96 gallons) would simplify cart procurement and inventory,
and may result in operational efficiencies depending on the automated collection
equipment of the selected hauler. With the added space and ability to fit larger items like
cardboard, large bins may also encourage more recycling and prepare the program to
accept more materials in the future. However, for smaller households that generate
minimal waste, a 96-gallon cart could be larger than necessary.
b. Different cart size options would allow residents to select the cart size that best fits
their needs based on waste generation. This could also lead to greater participation if
people feel more satisfied with a flexible program. The customer charge for different cart
sizes would be the same. However, it would result in a higher cost and administrative
burden to purchase, stock, deliver, and maintain different cart sizes.
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Cart size comparison
Size (gal)Width x
Depth Height
64 27" x 27"41"
96 29" x 33"45"
Issue 5 Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends a uniform cart size of 96 gallons.
Providing all households universal access has the highest potential for diversion. Staff
believes that a uniform cart size at the outset of the program helps set the program up for
success by removing the administrative and operational burden of multiple cart size options.
Once the program is up and running, staff can evaluate if additional cart sizes are still desired
at that point and look for ways to accommodate those requests.
ESTIMATED COSTS:
The costs of a curbside recycling program consist of the cost of the equipment (carts), the cost
of a collection contract (fuel, trucks, labor), the cost of disposal (the per-ton tipping fee), and
administrative costs (billing, public information, etc.).
The equipment and collection contract costs will not be known until a request for proposals
(RFP) has been solicited. Staff anticipates that the first year of the collection contract will be
higher in cost than subsequent years because the hauler will be required to haul materials
directly to Des Moines until the R3C facility is open and can provide a shorter travel distance.
The cost for carts is expected to be amortized over a 5-10 year period.
In comparing to similar programs in other communities, staff estimates that a monthly
household fee is likely to be between $6 and $8. A more specific financial analysis can be
presented to the City Council at the time a hauler contract is presented to the City Council for
consideration.
NEXT STEPS:
Given Council direction regarding the five policy issues shown above, staff will prepare
a Request For Proposal (RFP) to which prospective vendors could respond. This RFP
would outline expectations around recycling pick up, notification to customers, customer
service regarding missed pickup or contaminated recyclable materials, and other standards to
ensure the program's success.
It is anticipated that the recycling program could start 6 to 9 months after the RFP is issued
(ideally around July 1). Throughout this time, staff will develop and implement a
comprehensive public education and outreach campaign to engage residents and inform them
about the program.
Staff anticipates gaining an understanding of expected curbside recycling fees and R3C
tipping fees by February 2026. As the information becomes available, staff will actively seek to
educate all stakeholders on costs, acceptable materials, schedule, size of carts, and
expectations for program participation. An ordinance would ultimately need to be
considered to establish the program, establish the recycling standards, and adopt the
fee for the program.
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This RFP will also include options for each of the partner agencies in the existing Resource
Recovery System. Staff has had conversations with most of the partner agencies about the
need for further waste diversion at the new R3C. Any of the partner agencies may choose
to utilize the vendor selected by the City of Ames, or they may choose to use a solution
that best fits the needs of their individual community. This could include a separate
contract for curbside recycling or a centralized recycling collection drop off (e.g., a roll-
off container).
MULTIFAMILY RECYCLING PILOT:
Separate from the residential curbside program, staff believes it would also be valuable to
seek out partners to advance understanding of multifamily recycling. The partnership would
involve a financial incentive in the form of a cost share program to one or more interested
multifamily properties to pilot recycling. The goals of the pilot program would be to identify
challenges and best practices around multifamily recycling, including:
Infrastructure and space
Contamination
Awareness and education
Costs
The results of this pilot would be used to further engage with and expand multifamily recycling
in Ames. Staff is seeking approval to allocate up to $20,000 from sustainability funding
in the Council Priorities Fund for the pilot program. If granted, the balance of the fund
would be $907,400.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Direct staff to:
a. Proceed with a Request for Proposals (RFP) based on staff's recommendations
indicated above for each issue (Level of Access, Provider, Cart Ownership, Frequency
of Service, Cart Size).
b. Allocate up to $20,000 from the Council Priorities Sustainability fund for the multifamily
recycling pilot project.
2. Direct staff to proceed with a Request for Proposals (RFP) process with different
direction than staff's recommendations and approve allocating up to $20,000 for the
multifamily recycling pilot project.
3. Direct staff to proceed with a Request for Proposals (RFP) process with different
direction than staff's recommendations. Do n o t approve allocating up to $20,000 for the
multifamily recycling pilot project.
4. Refer this item back to staff for further information.
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CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City is obligated to implement landfill diversion due to DNR landfill fees and the
transition away from waste-to-energy. Curbside recycling is the most cost-effective
potential approach to accomplish landfill diversion and keep cost increases for
landfilling to a minimum. Increased recycling also aligns with Climate Action Plan
goals.
Universal access to curbside recycling best aligns with these goals, will result in
greater diversion than other options, and is supported by the survey results. A uniform
container size will reduce the administrative burden and costs for managing the
program.
Continued in-depth education and outreach will be essential to keeping the public
informed and setting the program up for success. Policy recommendations and the
multifamily pilot project are based on recycling industry best practices tailored to the
Ames community. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City
Council adopt Alternative No. 1 a & b, as described above.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A - Curbside Recycling Survey Results.pdf
Attachment B - Iowa Recycling Programs.pdf
Residential Curbside Recycling Program Presentation_11-18-25.pptx
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City of Ames Curbside Recycling Survey Results
September 2 - 30, 2025 | 1,543 responses
The City of Ames Curbside Recycling Survey was open from September 2 – September 30,
2025 and received 1,543 responses. The purpose of this survey was to gather public feedback
around recycling and to use the input to inform the development of a City curbside recycling
program. Staff promoted the survey to residents through various means including at events and
through digital media such as press releases, social media, and newsletters.
Below is a summary of the results from the survey. It is important to note that generative AI
(ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot) was used to help summarize the results, however, staff has
verified the accuracy of this summary. There were a few questions with comment boxes where
survey respondents could provide input. The raw results for those are included in Appendix A at
the end of this report.
First are high-level findings based on the responses, followed by a breakdown of the structured
questions (yes/no, multiple choice) and descriptive questions (open-ended).
Contents
High-Level Findings and Recommendations .............................................................................. 2
Structured Questions ................................................................................................................. 3
Descriptive Questions ................................................................................................................ 5
Appendix A: List of descriptive (open-ended) responses. ........................................................... 7
8. Please share any barriers you may have to recycling materials included
in question 7 (cans, cardboard, plastics #1 and #2, mixed paper, glass). ....................... 7
14. What other comments or ideas do you have about residential curbside
recycling? (no character limit) ........................................................................................29
15. What barriers may your household have to curbside recycling? (no
character limit) ...............................................................................................................72
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High-Level Findings and Recommendations
Findings:
• Residency & Housing:
o Most respondents are Ames residents living in single-family homes.
• Current Recycling Habits:
o Drop-off recycling at the Resource Recovery Center and glass/cardboard self-
service sites are popular.
• Curbside Recycling Preferences:
o Majority believe a 96-gallon cart picked up bi-weekly would meet their needs.
o Many prefer the standard size, though some find it too large.
• Material Confidence:
o High confidence in recycling all recyclable materials.
• Barriers Identified:
o Cost, space for bins, and uncertainty about what can be recycled.
Based on the survey results, the following actions are recommended:
• Transparent pricing:
o Clearly communicate costs to residents as information becomes available.
• Education & Clarity:
o Provide visual guides (e.g., fridge magnets, bin stickers) on what can be recycled
and how to prepare items, especially plastics.
o Address myths and skepticism with facts about recycling outcomes.
• Bin Design & Flexibility:
o Consider offering smaller bin options.
• Accessibility Support:
o Offer community drop-off alternatives for those unable to manage curbside bins.
o Consider providing assistance for seniors and those with mobility challenges.
• Expanded Recycling Options:
o Consider including plastics #3–#7.
o Consider future management of organics (food waste, yard waste).
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Structured Questions
Yes 1504 97%
No 39 3%
Single Family Residence 1342 87%
Multi-Family Residence (four units or less) 74 5%
Multi-Family Complex (five units or more)119 8%
Curbside recycling through a private hauler 266 17%
Drop-off recycling at Resource Recovery 606 39%
Glass/cardboard self-service sites around the community 761 49%
None but I am interested 267 17%
None 130 8%
Other 65 4%
Yes, I think this will meet my household needs 1092 72%
No, I think pick up should happen more frequently (weekly)116 8%
No, I think pick up should happen less frequently (monthly)159 11%
Does not apply, I live in a large multi-family housing 82 5%
I don't know 58 4%
Much too small 4 0%
A little too small 35 3%
About right size 864 63%
A little too large 307 23%
Much too large 154 11%
Yes 755 49%
No 785 51%
Cans 1327 86%
Cardboard 1399 91%
Plastics 1352 88%
Mixed Paper 1218 79%
Glass 1402 91%
None 85 6%
2. What best describes your home?
1. Are you an Ames resident?
3. What recycling services do you currently use? (check all that apply)
4. Most cities similar in size to Ames or larger offer 96-gallon recycling
carts that are picked up every other week for curbside recycling. Do you
think this frequency would meet your household needs?
Over 70% of respondents agreed that
bi-weekly pickup would meet their
needs. A notable portion preferred
monthly or weekly pickup.
There are 81 unique response
combinations, indicating a wide variety
of recycling habits and service usage
across respondents. 504 respondents,
about 1/3, use more than one
recycling service.
5. If you live in a single family residential property, would a 96-gallon
recycling cart (simliar size to a typical wheeled trash container) be
adequate?
63% of respondents agreed that a 96-
gallon cart would be adequate. A
notable portion (34%) indicated that
the cart would be too large.
6. If a smaller recycling cart option was offered, would you prefer that
option?
Respondents were almost equally split
on this question, with almost half
(49%) indicating they would prefer the
option of a smaller cart.
7. Which of the following items do you feel confident you would recycle in
a curbside program?
The large majority of respondents
(79%+) indicated they feel confident
recycling each of the listed materials.
Mixed paper was slightly lower than
other materials.
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Regularly 1260 82%
Sometimes 163 11%
Not at all 120 8%
Not important 278 18%
Slightly important 296 19%
Moderately important 300 19%
Important 293 19%
Very important 224 14%
I don't know/unsure 179 11%
Not important 436 28%
Slightly important 333 22%
Moderately important 230 15%
Important 235 15%
Very important 156 10%
I don't know/unsure 146 10%
Not important 242 16%
Slightly important 272 18%
Moderately important 271 18%
Important 320 21%
Very important 276 18%
I don't know/unsure 158 10%
Drop off at Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus 73 22%
Recycling container on property 129 39%
Try to recycle with any options made available 95 29%
I would not recycle 31 9%
Not applicable- I don't live in a multi-family unit 737 -
Cityside Newsletter in Utility Bills 1029 67%
City Website/Social Medias 899 58%
Mail 811 53%
Door Hangers 391 25%
E-notifications from City of Ames Website 665 43%
Newspaper 187 12%
10. If cardboard is included in curbside pickup, how important is it to
maintain community cardboard drop-off sites?
71% of respondents indicated that
maintaining community cardboard
drop-off sites was slightly to very
important. 18% indicated it was not
important, and 11% were unsure.
The large majority of respondents,
92%, indicated they would participate
in curbside recycling, with 82%
indicating they would regularly
participate. 8% said they would not
participate.
11. If glass is included in curbside pickup, how important is it to maintain
community glass drop-off sites?
62% of respondents indicated that
maintaining community glass drop-off
sites was slightly to very important.
28% indicated it was not important,
and 10% were unsure. Results
indicate slightly more support for
cardboard drop-off sites than for glass.
9. How often would you use curbside recycling?
12. If curbside recycling is available, how important is it to continue free,
separated recyclable drop-off containers at the new Resource Recovery
and Recycling Campus?
74% of respondents indicated that
maintaining community cardboard
pickup sites was slightly to very
important. 16% indicated it was not
important, and 10% were unsure.
13. If you live in a multi-family unit (five units or more), would you be willing
to (check all that apply):
16. What are the best ways to be notified about the program
implementation and schedule?
Respondents living in multi-family units
are almost twice as willing to
participate in recycling if there is a
designated container on property.
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Descriptive Questions
8. Please share any barriers you may have to
recycling materials included in question 7 (cans,
cardboard, plastics #1 and #2, mixed paper, glass).
25% of respondents reported experiencing barriers,
with a clear leading barrier being types of plastic. Key
takeaways:
1. Plastic confusion is the most cited barrier -
residents are unsure about which types are
accepted.
2. Cleanliness expectations (e.g., rinsing,
removing labels) are a significant concern.
3. Storage space for bins and bin size are
practical issues for many.
14. What other comments or ideas do you have about residential curbside recycling?
42% of responses included comments or ideas about curbside recycling. Key takeaways:
• Cost Concerns:
o Many respondents emphasized affordability.
o Requests for opt-out options, senior discounts, and fee transparency.
o Some fear mandatory charges on utility bills.
• Container Size & Frequency:
o Requests for smaller bins.
o Suggestions for weekly or monthly pickups.
o Concerns about storage space and truck traffic.
Theme Number of
Responses Representative Quote
Cost Concerns 151 “concerned about the fees. I'd much prefer to use free drop
off sites”
Container
Size/Frequency 87 “Put a sticker on my recycling bin telling me what dates are
pickup dates”
Drop-Off Site
Preferences 58 “multi-location free drop-offs will be awesome”
Expanded
Recycling
Options
57 “Will food waste composting still be available?”
Education
Needs 38
“It would be appreciated if there was a label on the can that
showed what items are acceptable and what items cannot
be recycled with a description of how they can be properly
disposed of”
Environmental
Motivation 20 “Thank you for helping the environment”
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• Drop-Off Sites:
o Strong support for maintaining existing drop-off locations, especially for:
▪ Large cardboard
▪ Residents in multi-family housing
• Expanded Recycling Options:
o Requests to include plastics #3–#7, food waste, yard waste, and electronics.
o Interest in composting programs and seasonal pickups.
• Education & Clarity:
o Need for clear guidelines on what can be recycled.
o Suggestions for fridge magnets, QR codes, and visual aids.
o Desire for community outreach, especially targeting youth and students.
• Environmental Motivation:
o Many respondents expressed excitement and support for the initiative.
o Some referenced successful programs in other cities (e.g., Des Moines, Ankeny,
Iowa City).
15. What barriers may your household have to
curbside recycling?
Two-thirds of respondents (66%) reported some
sort of barrier to curbside recycling. Key
takeaways and a word cloud of responses are
included below.
1. Cost is the most frequently cited barrier,
with concerns about affordability, added
fees, and lack of transparency.
2. Space and bin issues are practical
concerns, especially for those with limited
garage or yard space.
3. Knowledge gaps persist around what can
be recycled and how to prepare items.
4. Skepticism about whether recycling is
effective or trustworthy is notable.
5. Mobility and accessibility concerns are
especially relevant for seniors and those
with disabilities.
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Appendix A. List of descriptive (open-ended) responses.
ID# 8. Please share any barriers you may have to recycling materials included in
question 7 (cans, cardboard, plastics #1 and #2, mixed paper, glass).
2 NA
4 Don’t know what else to recycle
5 Test
17 Cans still have a redemption value
18 Just not knowing how they would need to be prepared. For example, where my
parents live, the recycling company requires all labels be peeled off, the containers
need to be completely washed, they cannot be brown glass, etc. I would just need to
know what the requirements are.
19 DEPENDS ON FEE, not sure how many more FEES we can afford. The possibility of
several future bond issues loom.
24 None
29 None.
30 I would love to see more plastic types be accepted but know that is challenging.
31 If the can is 96 gallons, it may be hard to store inside. Will storage of the can outside
be acceptable
34 How clean do the cans and glass need to be?
42 Cannot afford to pay for any recycling
44 None
47 I am all about recycling and this would save me driving around town!
52 Ability to sort and safe storage space at all times
53 I don’t have a bin.
59 For me what goes in what can would be helpful with that like a reminder on the car?
63 I'd like an option for recycling plastic bags
64 N/a
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69 I take my pop cans to obtain money and most of the plastic is used packaging that
was used for food
71 How separated?Am disabled, cart to curb may be difficult.
72 I currently recycle as much as I can, and I'm shocked at how much plastic we can
recycle. However, I'm on a fixed income, and money just disappears. Concerned
about yet another expense - how much longer can I afford to keep my home.
74 I don't mind using the free recycling drop-off at the RRP.
79 None
83 Senior with physical issues my garbage is picked up at my garage door. Would you
offer that to those who need it?
86 Garage space for the cart
101 Definitely think that #5 plastics should be included as well due to the amount of use.
105 Cans are redeemed for getting my deposit back, so those wouldn't be recycled. The
amount of cardboard (and size of cardboard) varies.
112 May not recycle redeemable cans, glass, or plastic, in order to continue redeeming at
Ames Bottle & Can
114 Well, I feel like it would be a giant pain to have to separate all the trash, other than our
limited glass, into a separate bin every time one of the 4 people in our household goes
to throw something away.
115 recycling containers picked up every other week become sticky smelly rodent and
insect magnets. Recycling has been proven to largely be a scam/racket. Hard pass on
this whole idea. Option to opt out please.
117 It should be free. We will not recycle if it means paying extra.
118 None
122 Employ people to separate the trash. You are wasting our time you idiots.
134 Where do I keep another large container
144 Cardboard is too bulky prefer to drop off at dite
149 Cost
153 Mixed paper - ensure that any confidential material is shredded beyond identification.
Some plastics are hard to tell of they are acceptable or not.
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158 Except for glass & cardboard, recycling plastic and metal cans is a time consuming
P.I.A. since the State of Iowa no longer requires stores to maintain recycling
concessions, such as Walmart & Hy-Vee. A major problem with glass recycling bins at
Hy-Vee is that the parking areas are covered with broken glass - no one takes
responsibility for keeping the area clear - not a big fan of broken glass in my car tires
or athletic shoe soles.
170 None
171 I do not like to separate trash!
177 Have this option for laverene Apartments as cant always take directly to the plant
178 I'm against a single, city wide provider for garbage services. And having an added fee
even if I don't use it.
179 Multifamily Housing does not allow for it. However once I live in a house in Ames I
would be all for it!
180 The Women’s’ Club demanded that we burn our garbage. I already paid.
183 Wish to remain with my current sanitation provider. It’s unknown how this will be
implemented and the effect on smaller garbage companies.
184 Space to keep the container
187 It is easier it just put everything in the trash
190 Having to separate and clean the items, purchasing a separate refuse container and
making room for it in my kitchen to put recycling in and then having to take it to the
larger recycling can out by the garage when currently, I only need one kitchen trash
can and only need to take my one trash bag to the larger trash can.
192 I don’t want this program
194 How clean do the items need to be? I live in Ames but cannot get a private company
to pick up recycle due to distance. Will I still receive service?
196 I don't see any barriers for my family, but just be ad clear as possible regarding what is
acceptable for recycling.
204 None
206 Why no #5 plastics? I visit friends in the twin cities and #5 is accepted it here.
208 I have no interest in sorting garbage
209 None
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228 Must be sensitive to retired couple who supports recycling but does not generate
much volume. Our trash can is filled at 25% of capacity currently. I would be
concerned of expense associated with frequent pickup.
229 I just need signs to help me identify the right plastics
230 none
245 Cost
250 Separating items is a nuisance. Just extra work!
255 None
258 Remembering when is pickup
265 Would plastics and cardboard need to be clean?
269 rinsing materials
268 I'm leery of plastics and often forget about paper and cardboard
270 storage of the containers More junk on the side of everyone's garage.
272 Ready availability for plastics and mixed paper recycling.
273 I dont believe that much of any of it will actually get recycled
275 None
276 Ames experiences strong winds every spring. These winds can make it difficult to
keep recycling bins stable and may cause lightweight materials, such as paper or
cardboard, to blow away. This issue should be considered when implementing the
program.
277 We generate a lot of cardboard waste
279 I don't throw away many items at all.
281 Due to glass breakage Iowa City stopped picking up glass in recycling. Most likely
Ames will have the same fate.
283 Dirty
286 Would need to know how recyclables need to be prepared - thoroughly cleaned?
Labels removed? Would also want clear instructions on when not to include these
materials - eg if they contain any food residue
287 None
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291 None
293 No barriers
299 I will continue to return my cans with a deposit to ABC, but I also have other non-
deposit cans to recycle
304 Cost has to be reasonable
305 ensuring only #1 and #2 plastics are put in the recycling and no others
306 can redemption instead to receive funds
311 There are many #1 plastics without screw on like (blueberry containers)
314 I thought our previous system of turning things into energy was far better for the
environment, and I'd like to know why it has to stop. It will be difficult to adjust,
especially with paper items.
320 I would continue to donate or redeem cans
325 Barriers is the location of recycling. If it was curbside, or closer options, I'd likely
recycle more. (I did when I lived in a single family house on the east side).
330 Another fee
332 Are any of these materials going to be processed in Iowa? Who is buying or using the
material? I have heard that it just gets shipped far away and out of the state, which
seems counterintuitive to recycling.
338 I prefer to drop off as I do now every recyclable
341 I would like to have clear instructions about recycle ability of items and how to prepare
them for pick up
344 None.
352 Lack of education, encouragement, and easy access
357 If items need to be sorted individually
358 Sometimes confused by what plastic is allowed and not allowed
363 What to do with other plastics
364 Price.
367 None
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369 Broken glass mixed in other recyclables
371 I personally would have no problem but there are always issues, see #14 / 15.
373 I don't like the automatic cost being added to utilities. Our taxes are already too high.
376 None
380 Specifics on which plastics can be recycled. Specifics on what paper products, cans
and glass care recyclable.
384 Would still take in redeemable bottles and cans as long as that program continues
389 I live in multifamily housing. People would have to clean their cans, glass containers or
we would have bugs and critters within a day. And I dont want to see every yard in
town with multiple containers/carts.
395 Sometimes it's hard to tell what number plastic it is, or it would be more work to
remove label, wash, and dry before putting in recycling.
397 Hassle of sorting. I like the current way ames handles it by burning
15 None
412 I would prefer can redemption as it is currently offered across town, since there is
small financial reimbursement with that method
414 I would need to learn more about what plastics are recycleable
417 Plastics are too complicated.
419 Education on food residue and how much is too much to be recycled
425 My understanding is that there's not really many items that can truly be recycled in an
effective and cost efficient manner.
427 If I move to an applicable residence cost. It is already beyond expensive to live in
Ames and people cannot afford one more "thing" while important, this should be a
choice for people not a mandate
436 I am concerned that there is no mention of what the cost would be. I think the survey
should include an estimate of the cost to make a truly informed decision.
439 lack of room in the garage for a recycling cart
441 None! It would be more convenient to have a curbside option vs the current drop-off
option.
444 none
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445 Knowing which plastics will be accepted. Cost may also be a factor.
446 None
451 I already have a Trash Cart and a Yard Waste Cart I don't know where I would put a
3rd one.
454 None. My family already recycle all these materials
455 None
457 The lack of convenience, having to travel to recycle. This would be incredibly helpful!
461 I never know what to do with pizza boxes or other food cardboard, and plastics aren't
always labeled
464 Hard to break down big boxes
465 No barriers
472 I'm a little concerned about liquids from cans destroying the paper and cardboard.
474 Clear rules about odd ends, like tape on cardboard or glue on plastics/glass etc.
482 Recycling efforts are complete waste of time and is not cost effective. We put these
sort of things in place so we can pat ourselves on the back and say "we're saving
environment" while we buy our electric vehicles whose cobalt and lithium are mined by
children and and processed in smog cities far away from here so we don't have to
acknowledge it. Provide a localize drop off spot like you do now that so people that
want to can participate and don't force the rest of us to be charged for an ineffective
and unnecessary system.
490 I am just curious why we need twist-off lids with plastics?
499 Which plastics can be recycled
500 More could be included.
501 Storage of recycling carts and smell
511 Cardboard takes up a lot of room, but may still drop that off
516 None
524 my age
535 I only recycle cans because anything else is such a hassle to 1) store and 2) haul to
the appropriate place. To have 1 bin I can put those things in that gets hauled away
every other week would be amazing.
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536 The deposit for cans and bottles may be a barrier to people wanting to recycle those
items. I recommend speaking with Metro Waste Authority about how they redeem
cans after being recovered from their MRF.
537 None
538 I don’t have room in my house for additional bins to place recycled itema and
realistically we are too lazy to take it out to the recycling bin every time we are needing
to dispose or something, so either it will pile up inside or just get thrown in the trash
90% of the time.
540 None
543 Aluminum cans will be redeemed. Tin cans will be recycled.
546 Please provide clear instructions as to what in acceptable items and what are
definitely prohibited for recycling.
547 Limited indoor storage space for a recycling cart & HOA covenants that prevent
outdoor storage.
553 Knowing what should and should not go into reccling bin.
555 I'm in a condo. Multi family residences
556 what are Plastics #1 and #2
562 It would be nice if more plastics could be included :)
563 having recycling forced on people is not the route to make it work
565 None.
566 I can’t drive to take it to be recycled and I really can’t afford another monthly bill
570 I have zero confidence that plastic is actually recycled therefore I do not buy things in
plastic
571 Clear instructions needed on washing items etc. We don't want to produce
unrecyclable materials.
573 I would love to be able to recycle more types of plastics (yogurt containers, cool whip
containers, etc)
576 possibly the cost
577 None
578 How clean do they need to be in order to be recycled?
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581 I'd be unsure which cardboards/papers could be included
585 Cost of curbside pickup.
588 We redeem cans and bottles for the 5c refund ourselves.
592 Cost of recycling
594 Do they need to be thoroughly cleaned first? Especially cans and glass. Labels
removed, etc?
609 Can returns yield 5 cents per
612 NO tax increase or additional fees!!!
619 Never know which plastic is recyclable
621 We would lose our bottle deposit.
622 None.
627 Does it all have to be washed or just rinsed?
631 Distinguishing plastics that can be recycled.
644 I never remember what can and can not be recycled.
645 none
656 Only issue for me is where to store the cart, which I'll figure out
663 1) occasional more cardboard; 2) storage for the recycling container
665 Mixed paper would need good explanation and definition.
667 we do not know if the monthly fee would be too high in regard to how relatively little
recycling we might have
669 If information was provided that includes examples of mixed paper and plastics, then I
would feel more confident with recycling!
676 cleaning plastic containers & identifying # on plastics
685 Ability to store the container, cost to recycle, need to sort the materials
686 Just having a place to put this extra large bin at our house.
687 I need to know they are being actually recycled. I know that some of the local offerings
in Ames were going straight to the dump.
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689 Are the other types of plastic meant to be routed to trash?
691 Extra work. Kids, me putting stuff in the wrong place
693 Do not have room in the townhome garage for another container.
697 None
698 None, we love it
710 Uncertainty around how clean items need to be (absolutely no food product on cans
vs rinsed well) and if labels have to be taken off cans and bottles
715 None
720 The cost of this added to our bill. What about household batteries?
731 Finding a place for the bin
732 Knowledge! In my last town they had a sticker on the cans of what could and could not
be recycled at it was very helpful!
738 I don't agree that glass should go in there. It's much too dangerous. In other cities
we've lived, glass was separately contained in a smaller bin and picked up at the
same time as other recyclables. I've lived in Cedar Rapids, IA and in Boulder, CO.
743 I would rather not have to pay extra for the service but continue to take it to the
recovery center. WHY DOES AMES HAVE TO CHANGE FROM BURNING TRASH?
THAT SHOULD BE MAKE PUBLIC
752 Mixed paper might get messy, not sure with all of the different food packaging.
756 Accessibility
757 I am sometimes unsure on how products that have touched food get recycled. Lack
the education to do it confidently
766 Why can't we continue with the genius system we have? Sounds like replacing the
nice asphalt trails that are better for joints with cement at Ada Hayden, who is
benefiting from these changes?.
768 Space in house for more than one garbage can in the kitchen which is where most of
this recycling would come from
772 None
776 None
782 No barriers
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783 Knowing how clean they have to be before they can be recycled.
785 None
787 None
788 None, already recycle all of the above and separate for drop off. Curbside would just
make that easier and save monthly trips to the drop off site.
793 Would do curb side! I currently, get sick of the pulling up and driving them to drop offs
so often throw in trash. :(
796 N/A
800 non
802 I’d like to see additional plastic recycling, like yogurt containers
804 Will soiled paper (used paper towels and paper plates and meat wrapping paper, etc.)
or shredded paper be included? Will loose items in plastic bags be included.? Will
glass containers and cans have be clean? How about pop tops or metal bottle caps?
805 how would they be separated????
806 Have to get more familiar with Plastic #s; has been a little confusing in the past, but
we would get familiar with it.
809 Im always unsure how clean things need to be to be recycled. Like can a greasy,
cheesy pizza box still go in cardboard recycling?
814 Confidence in what would actually be accepted. So much can't actually be recycled. A
detailed pamphlet when the program starts would be helpful.
817 I already wash out glass jars but I imagine some people would struggle with needing
to clean cans, jars, and plastic containers.
825 As "green" as Ames claims to be, now we're adding more vehicles less on the road to
haul waste...jeez.
853 Questions about cardboard that can be recycled or not, and plastics.
855 Currently have to take it somewhere special which isn’t practical
857 I would really prefer to opt out of curbside recycling for a lower utility bill, and continue
to take everything to the resource recovery plant drop site.
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858 Place weather proof sticker on top of recycling lid reminding residents which items are
accepted and which are not and are hazardous (ie batteries, paint cans) Visual aids
are best reminders.
859 Money, driving
869 Dragging a large bin from behind the house is a challenge for me. In the snow, it's
even worse.
870 Understanding EXACTLY what is recyclable and what isn’t
872 NA
877 long drive to access
881 911 for recycling!!!
882 cost!
888 none if we get the option
889 should be paid for through city taxes. all could participate.
890 taking light bulbs and glass to drop off site
892 I live in a duplex and rent it from the owner who owns the 2 duplexes and a house.
898 If containers had to be prepped in any way
901 Storage of a 2nd rolling cart
902 Not understanding what types of plastics can be recycled. Not knowing how clean
items need to be before getting recycled (ie glass food containers)
904 unclear how clean glass, plastic would need to be (of food waste)
907 education on which items are recyclable or not
912 I hope the glass won’t break during the collection so that it won’t be difficult for people
who sort them. Iowa city does not correct glasses, wish they do but they can be
dangerous.
913 I would like to see more plastic being able to be recycled. #4, #5, etc.
914 Washing before disposal. Sorting
916 The cost
921 Apartment community supporting it
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922 The cost associated with this service. City bill is too high already.
923 Not interested in an additional fee on my city bill
924 Cleaning items. Space to collect in home
925 I believe recyclable materials could be separated by machine centrally much more
effective than for 75000residents to be doing it poorly.
928 I have nowhere to store another trash cart. would prefer a tote that doesn't take so
much room. Also, I don't want to pay for recycling as our garbage bill is high enough.
930 Cleaning, breaking down, and separation of materials
939 This would make recycling so much easier, no barriers.
942 I don't want to drive somewhere to recycle
943 Food containers need to be cleaned or picked up more frequently.
945 I have a small house, I don't have room for more bins in my cramped kitchen for my
pets to get into. I'm on a shoestring budget and I'm not interested in being forced to
pay for a program I won't use. It should be optional.
952 Wet garbage option/compostsble?
954 I think charging everyone is ridiculous. The only people that should be charged for the
service are those that opt in for the recycling cart. If someone doesn't want the extra
bin they shouldn't have to pay for everyone else.
961 live in multifamily residence
962 I don't want another large refuse container I have to store
963 Products with food in them after time will start to stink so picking up 1x a week would
help this issue.
968 Confusion on which plastics are acceptable
969 Do these items need to be clean?
970 Space in the house for storage prior to going into outside can. The city should provide
some containers at the start of this program. Education. I do not know what mixed
paper is. Plastics are also confusing.
975 Keeping cardboard and paper dry/not blowing away
976 Plastic is difficult to find 1 and 2 labels.
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982 Green Hills collec a lot of these materials.
984 Live in an apartment style condo
987 If there are too many "exceptions" to what can go in the container or not being able to
speak with a live person about questions / concerns.
988 Pickup and delivery
990 Recycling is not acceptable
994 I live in a senior residence community
1001 I live I. A retirement community, which would present a different set of choices
1005 Ensuring it’s the right type of plastic
1010 Cans smell and would rather toss them with regular garbage
1011 Increased cost
1012 Only if the cart is too small
1015 Can currently recycle plastics thru 5
1016 Figuring out which plastics are acceptable for recycling.
1017 Difficult to figure out which plastics are used
1028 Increased utilities
1034 Cost
1035 I will still do the re-cycling myself if availible rather than paying a fee
1045 Just in locating the markings on plastic items to know which are recyclable and which
are not
1046 Where would you keep a recycling container in a town house situation? For a
comparison visit with the city of Columbia, in Missouri
1047 I would take them all to the free recycling. I don't want to pay
1048 Glass could end up broken at the curb or on the street
1051 teaching my household members how to thoroughly wash out items
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1053 No room to add another large trash bin in our garage. Will need larger than 96 gallons
if paper towels considered mixed paper. Currently fill a cart larger than r that on a
weekly basis.
1054 NONE
1061 None
1064 We have very little trash in general, most weeks less than one 13 gallon kitchen trash
bag. We already separate glass and put in bins at grocery store. I would not want to
pay much for this extra can pick-up.
1073 If hauler misses dumping the glass, could add extra glass shards to the end of the
driveway which could puncture tires, especially on bicycles
1081 I don't generate enough recyclables to justify this
1093 Provide clear detailed guidance regarding what is acceptable, specifically for plastic
and mixed paper.
1094 I avoid plastic. There’s no barrier.
1095 Limited room in our garage for any size can
1104 Space in the cart for cardboard.
1108 How much, if any, sorting required; cost
1111 Would paper be soiled by the other recycled products?
1123 Will pizza boxes be included with the cardboard? I only drink bottled water, we go
through a lot of plastic water bottles.
1127 Need more info on what is mixed paper and plastics #1 and #2
1128 Washing cans and bottles out, the place to store another large trash can in my garage
1131 Green hills
1133 None
1141 None
1145 The effort to sort them out from general trash and uncertainty about what exactly can
be recycled and what can't (eg cardboard but with food remnants, types of plastic, etc)
1146 Rinsed cans without lids attached? Rinsed glass?
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1158 Not all containers with twist off lids are recyclable, cardboard (like pizza boxes) is
often dirty or oily and therefore not recyclable, cans and bottles actually make money
if you save them and take them to somewhere that gives you the deposit back.
1161 Knowing exactly what I can recycle
1162 Reconsider glass in the mixed recycling. Many cities have removed from mixed
recycling because of the breakage and contamination.
1164 Cardboard boxes must be broken and flattened for recycling. Now, people just put
them in a dumpster.
1170 I don't have a response for question 7. But regarding question 10, I did not know
there were community cardboard drop-off sites.
1171 None
1173 None
1179 Depends on where the recycle receptacle would live - I probably don’t have space
inside for it but if it was outside by my garbage can then I would easily make trips to
add recycle to it. If I have to keep things inside for 2 weeks, that would be a problem.
1182 None
1183 Plastics are confusing, can't remember the rules.
1189 None
1191 washing the trash before throwing it away is not worth it, especially since recycling is a
scam anyway. it just gets sorted and then shipped elsewhere to be thrown away
anyway. The triangle is REDUCE, REUSE, with recycle as the last resort. I'm unwilling
to pay for this "service" and will opt out and continue with the glass that I recycle now.
the system we have is the best of a bad situation of waste that is generated. moving
off of this is a step in the wrong direction. I'm not going to pay for people to pretend to
be "green”
1196 Do they need to be rinsed clean or can there be food reaidue
1199 I'm a creature of habit. I haven't thought about separating more since it all gets
ground up currently.
1201 Inconvenient
1203 I live just outside Ames.
1205 Wondering about the cost of them picking it up here for a Windsor Oaks 28 apartment
complex
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1208 Lack of space for multiple containers
1221 Space for storage of another container
1232 Storing another container
1237 Defining twist-off lids. Example: prescription medication sort of twists off
1241 None but what about grass and branches?
1243 Transportation and locations that take recycling
1247 Not as easy as the MRF now. % recycling in the community will go down
1250 Don’t understand what mixed paper is; how clean do items need to be, all cardboard
even if have staples?
1252 N/A
1255 None
1257 Just questions on rinsing, cross contamination, etc
1258 None
1259 Storage space
1263 Would labels need removed from glass
1265 It feels confusing still. Need instructions so easy a 4th grader can understand.
1269 I have to figure where to store the bin. I have a 96 gallon yard waste bin on the side of
the house, and a 65 gallon bin for garbage in the garage. I would prefer a 65 gallon
recycle bin; we would never fill a 96) gallon one. And the 65 would be easier to stir
and handle.
1287 I don't really want to pay for this service.Nor do I want to have another can
1288 Figuring out which plastics are ok.
1289 Time
1294 Cost
1295 At this time I throw way to many recyclables in with waste.
1298 We don’t need a recycling bin.
1299 multi-family residence
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1300 Additional cost to homeowners
1304 In the past when I’ve lived in cities with recycling programs having a poster or handout
with what’s allowed and not has been helpful
1307 I cannot manage a pickup container. I will handle my own recycling.
1308 Added cost
1311 Unclear about rules - do containers need to be washed/rinsed and then recycled?
1313 The only thing is it becomes difficult to store the container in the garage
1314 Knowledge of what is recyclable
1315 None
1322 Is paperboard (cereal box type) included in cardboard? Would like more plastic
options
1324 I don’t think I should have to pay more for recycling
1063 Sometimes the mixed paper recycling bins are so full, it is hard to add stuff but I guess
that is a good thing!
1329 I might forget pick up day sometimes but I am so excited about this service!
1332 Already recycle. No barrier.
1335 Cost - always about the money
1340 habit of throwing in trash, will take time to get used to putting in a different container.
1349 I lived in Iowa city during college and we had recycling. I remember it being very
annoying. I think because there were so many materials to sort and requirements to
clean certain containers before recycling.
1351 How fast it fills up with cardboard
1355 A place to put additional containers
1358 Not sure what to recyle
1370 Are these items all mixed in the same container?oner?
1374 Not knowing where to takeitems
1376 Landlords
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1380 I don't want to have to wash the containers (glass, cans) and clean them before I put
them in the bin
1384 It takes more time and more space, neither of which I have
1390 Cost
1400 This will be difficult for Ames residents to get used to after so many years of throwing
everything into one can.
1404 There are a lot of plastics, we need more definitions.
1409 what about plastics #3 - #7?
1410 Just learning to change habits
1412 No barriers
1414 N/A
1424 We'll still drop off cardboard as it is difficult to place in a cart (takes up a lot of space).
1426 things have to be cleaned and separated so insufficient time and motivation
1429 Have to go to the rr plant. Having a bin at home would be greatly helpful and used
diligently.
1434 Maintaining the recycling bin only for recycling due to housemates and staff with
potential malign or negligent intent
1435 It might be time-consuming to peel off paper from cans and broken glass around bin
may be a problem.
1437 Make it clear what is a 1 and 2 plastic.
1440 Food waste
1447 None
1448 Changing habits
1449 Cleaning first? Lids?
1450 Cleaning out cans and all glass
1452 If items like cardboard do not fit in the bin, will the servicer pick up items outside the
bin?
1456 Not clear how this would be implemented
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1457 Time
1459 Too high of fee compared to private companies
1462 Would need examples so we don’t accidentally put the wrong things in
1465 Rinsing containers out first
1469 None! We’ve wanted this service for years!
1471 Needs to be easy to drop off , drive thu is best
1472 Uncertainty on what to recycle, and how clean
1474 Clear rules on what is and is not allowable
1478 Time required to clean or rinse recyclables. Uncertainty about which items are
recyclables especially what kind of paper and plastic
1479 I would not recycle cans or bottles with you because then I wouldn't get my bottle
deposit back.
1480 What about yogurt containers and others like that with dairy?
1491 What about other plastic items?
1492 N/A
1494 I don't want to pay for a recycling service.
1495 Cost, reputation of recycling in general
1497 I live in an apartment
1499 I don’t want to be forced to pay money for recycling.
1509 Cleanliness requirements related to food & drink recyclables
1512 none, but good education is needed about how clean things need to be; restrictions on
types of paper and other products.
1513 I would need to take some larger cardboard to a site with bigger containers, and would
be very willing to do that
1514 None
1515 None already using
1516 No room in garage for a second bin
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1517 Needing to wash out items before recycling takes up extra space
1520 Space in my house to store and sort. Cleaning jars if necessary
1529 how many carts will be available? how much more would my garbage charge?
1534 Knowing which plastics are okay yo recycle and how to properly clean them.
1535 Storage space for more bins and separate bins inside.
1536 None
1542 Cleaning cans may be hard. Knowing what is proper #1 & #2 not simple
1543 Nonsense
1544 Just need to be educated on what can all be recycled since haven’t had to worry about
it since being in Ames and was previously all used as energy.
1546 Why? They just combine the recycling containers into the same vehicle and landfill
everything.
1560 None.
1562 Multiple bins will be helpful to sort them separately for city to reduce the cost of
operation.
1563 Realistically, plastic is hard - it is why I try to avoid stuff in plastic without driving
myself nuts about it. Checking to see if it is the right kind is a pain.
1564 Not enough kinds of plastic are included in the plan
1566 Whats the incentive to wash off organic and dry moisture?
1572 I would love to have a city option for recycling
1573 Size of cardboard may not always fit in bin
1574 I worry that having these bins standing around might be dangerous in high winds!
Remember. not everyone has a garage!
1575 We live in multi-family housing and would love for there to be more recycling options,
even if those are additional drop-off sites in other neighborhoods (we live in North
Ames).
1576 None!
1577 I can't think of any
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1578 Would likely take cans to redemption center to support local charities
1579 None
1581 None
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ID# 14. What other comments or ideas do you have about residential curbside
recycling? (no character limit)
2 multi-location free drop-offs will be awesome
4 Put a sticker on my recycling bin telling me what dates are pickup dates
5 Test
9 Single stream
11 Expand to Nevada
14 Glad to see the city exploring this. I use glass and cardboard drop offs now. My only
concern is the proposed container size. I live alone and don't produce a significant
amount of recyclable materials.
17 This is exciting, we are currently spending $700 a year extra to work with a trash
company that also offers recycling.
18 I would be really excited to have this as an option. We often dread having to take our
cardboard to a community drop off location -- it's just another thing to do.
19 concerned about the fees. I'd much prefer to use free drop off sites
20 It is not clear whether separating materials would be required
22 For me, it would depend on cost. I currently take my recycling to the RRC. If the fee
is nominal for curbside recycling I would consider it. If it's above what I would pay,
then I will continue to take it to the RRC. I live alone, so I don't need it picked up
very often.
24 Interesting idea. What would the can center do? Close?
27 Would everyone be charged if you use it or not
30 Please do pursue this option! I have been hoping for this for ages
31 It would be appreciated if there was a label on the can that showed what items are
acceptable and what items cannot be recycled with a description of how they can be
properly disposed of
33 I cant afford a raise in my bill. When i lived in des moines trash was on water bill and
we had recycle and it was awesome. But raising pricing would concern me as we live
paycheck to paycheck as it is.
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34 It is very important to maintain drop-off sites if there won't be recycling options for
multifamily housing since like half of the Ames population is in multifamily housing.
37 This is a great idea! Would be totally for it.
38 I think this is a great idea and look forward to more information. Has a proposed fee
structure been developed yet?
40 Keep the system as easy and economical as possible, to encourage use
41 We applaud the city's efforts to encourage recycling and have made use of all of the
drop-off containers currently offered. Our BIGGEST concern with single-stream
recycling is that we will pay to have our bin picked up and most/all of it will end up in
a landfill. We make sure things we recycle are rinsed, but what happens if our mixed-
paper gets contaminated in the truck? That would mean our efforts are wasted and
we're paying extra to have our recycled items sent to the landfill. Please don't go to a
single-stream service.
42 Curbside recycling should, at best, be only a voluntary option; the cost not
automatically added to a utility bill
43 Please add it!!
44 I’m surprised this hasn’t been done before
49 Will food waste composting still be available?
47 I think this is an awesome idea and support this. I say moderately important in case
not everyone is willing to do the curbside recycling.
51 It would be nice to also pick up food waste.
52 If need recycled items separated a container that separates
53 This is needed in Ames
54 Bi-weekly would work most of the time. The drop-off sites would be needed when the
recyclables are extreme, like during holidays.
56 When we lived in military housing, they offered separate containers for the different
types of recycling such as glass, cans, plastic & paper/cardboard. The bins were
smaller for each type. The cost savings to have recycling separated prior to pick up
paid off for the utility. The trucks that came around were divided into the different
types of recyclables as well.
59 None
62 I'm also intersted in a city-sponsored yard waste curbside pickup program.
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63 Plastic bag recycling
64 Great idea Ames
70 I just moved her from Des Moines. We have had curbside recycling for years. they
used th 96 gallon container and pickup every two weeks. My bin was typically two
thirds full at the end of the two weeks, and more around holidays.
72 Love the idea of making recycling easier. Most people I know in surrounding cities
already have two bins. In my particular situation I'm concerned about another
expense. Consider a senior discount? If the cost is a problem for me, then I would
ask that you still have free drop off sites b/c I would continue to recycle.
74 Where is the new R3C going ot be located?
76 For 14 years, I lived in a city that supplied separate, smaller recycling containers to
each household for glass, cans, plastic and paper. Rach redodent put these blue
containers put on the street on recycling day. However, we were not charged fees. It
was simple and easy.
79 None
80 “A monthly fee for service will be added to every resident’s utility bill.“ Residents
should not be required to pay if they want to use the self-serve drop off sites instead
of curb-side pickup.
81 Who separates all the stuff in one bin? How does the glass not break?
82 Since Ames residents are not in the habit of recycling, there will be a learning curve.
I think it will be important for the city to produce materials and media that promote
recycling and make it clear how much we have been diverting from landfills and why
that is important. I think students should be engaged - they can help to encourage
their families and others.
83 I am a senior citizen on a fixed income. Cost is always a concern.
84 Will there still be composting?
89 The other options need to still be available for those who don’t have the means to pay
for an additional service
90 as a single elderly widow I tend to separate glass, cans, plastics, paper and
cardboard in the trash, can't always go to drop off. It takes a while to accumulate
enough for every other week.
94 I would appreciate more information about why the current system will no longer her
a sustainable option
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98 We sometimes fill the 96-gallon faster than every two weeks, so that's when it's good
to be able to drop off at the resource recovery and recycling
99 Try to keep rates down everyone will participate— even those on fixed income
105 I appreciate curbside recycling, but know people also abuse it. Some don't
understand recycling standards. Others use it for trash.
108 need adequate cart size for yard waste in addition to the usual garbage, glass, cans,
etc.
109 I am concerned about what the cost of this will be
110 Community outreach to educate on importance of recycling. Kids between the age of
5-18 are key as they are the future. Use social media, youtube, events at multiple
locations to get people togehter where this issue can be discussed. keep it informal.
use visuals, videos as necessary. find volunteers who can work with the city (young
folks) to engage with the community. Goal is to make the City of Ames a leader in
recycling in Iowa and the nation. Happy to assist. bdas@iastate.edu
112 Redemption would be a big thing. I know many people just trash these items anyway
for now, but I would still plan to redeem my items. Would this affect ABC’s ability to
operate?
115 Just allow me to opt out of the "service" and the charge/expense. As long as that's an
option. knock yourselves out separating trash before it ends up in a landfill anyway.
116 Would be nice to be able to recycle more than just 1 and 2 recycling plastics
118 Summer visitors were shocked to learn that Ames had no curb side recycling pick up.
Other communities here and abroad have a rigorous
122 Employ people to separate trash
123 I'm excited for Ames to have this -- other places I've lived have had this for decades
126 Please make this happen!!
129 Very concerned about cost added to utility bills. Cost MUST be kept low!! I can see it
getting out of hand.
130 Will it be mandatory? If so, is there a penalty for not doing it? It would have to fairly
economical or we would probably continue to recycle free at the drop off points.
132 I’ve been using Ames drive up recycling as long as it’s existed. As soon as drive up
food waste recycling was offered, I’ve used it weekly. The recycle cart proposal and
subject of this survey excludes food waste. So, if I had a cart for recycling everything
else, I would still have to drive to the recycling center to dispose of food waste. That
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makes your proposal very unattractive to me. Plus, even if the cart was smaller, I’d
still have to store it somewhere. They are ugly and take up way too much space. I
would be opposed to a city-wide recycling charge for all residents whether they use a
recycling cart or not.
136 Voluntary food composting information
139 Looking forward to curbside recycling!
145 Having larger containers that get picked up once a month would help reduce the
amount of transportation emissions compared to a weekly or bi-weekly pick up.
148 None
152 Cost and convenience are the biggest factors as to whether I would utilize recycling
services.
153 I do not like the idea of it just being charged on my City of Ames bill. I am a single
person household I do not need that much or require that much. I also am unsure
how this would work for those that need payment assistance. It becomes strange
when you try to put non-essential add ons onto a bill that you by law cannot
disconnect for half of the year. The bills are already going up over inflation people
want to do the right thing but adding more costs during a time people are struggling
seems unempathic to your citizens.
157 The cost should be less than third party providers if this is a requirement of living in
Ames.
161 Concerned that this will add yet another garbage truck traveling on our roadways.
We already have a different company on every single weekday. Would very much like
to have this consolidated. Could this be part of the transition to the new plant? Many
folks would very much like to have fewer days of loud bulky machines outside their
homes.
162 Keeping some current community alternatives is important for those who can't afford
or don't have access to the residential program.
164 Loved the system that Ankeny established!!!!! Please emulate!! Please.
165 Great idea!!
170 None
171 None
172 Please educate us as to why only #1 and #2 plastics, I currently recycle curbside with
a private hauler who takes anything with a triangle.
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173 What works best in other communities
175 We currently have curbside recycling with our trash company and are able to recycle
#1, #2 and #5 plastics. There are many plastics that cannot be recycled and to avoid
the wrong plastics ending up in recycling containers there will need to be a
considerable amount of information and education provided to residents.
177 I believe if made these assessable that people would use them
178 The downside of having the city choose who we can use for our garbage service will
allow prices that many would have difficulty affording and take away free choice. This
would be wrong on so many levels.
179 The City will want to engage ISU in this decision making process.
180 Make the Womens’ Club pay for recycling.
181 I believe curb-side recycling is long overdue for Ames.
185 Please recycle more plastics than just ones with twist off lids ! Yogurt and dairy
containers as well as individual portioned foods like applesauce and fruit cups.
186 Is this just up for discussion? The questions make it sound like it’s decided. The city
doesn’t have regular garbage pickup and now they are moving direct to recycling?
187 I think a separate food waste would be great for some sort of compost type process.
Also recycling building materials.
188 Do glass and plastic containers need to be rinsed and dried? Do lids need to stay on
plastic containers?
190 It should be free, and maintained by the city- the ames utility bills are already high for
electric, water and sewer charges along with the recent increase in rates.
192 Don’t do this program, or make it optional. I’m not paying for other liberals to recycle
crap that makes 0 actual impact. Stop shoving the onus of change on us and do
something about local corporate polluters.
193 My current garbage company has a contract for recycling, will the city pay for me to
get out?
194 I would love it!! I wish you accepted plastic without necks.
196 I would LOVE to see this implemented!
197 Grocery bags are something that we accumulate; is there any room for single use
plastics like this to be considered in this initiative?
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198 This is a great idea and about time. Frankly, I am tired of having to load my recycling
into my car and take it somewhere.
200 The cost needs to be very low. Garbage pickup is already high. This is adding to
costs.
201 I am a single homeowner who regularly recycles at the City site. My main concern is
whether people would actually sort recycling out of trash. Any change will involve a
commitment to provide a lot of education.
202 I think that is a wonderful service to offer.
203 Would definitely use the service if the fee is comparable to what I am paying a private
service
206 I think this is good. I wish Ames had a policy that all garbage in a ‘hood would be
picked up on the same day. We have garbage trucks going down our street everyday
of the week due to different contractors. This will add another one. In my mothers
town, all garbage recycling and yard waste are picked up on the same day,
depending on what neighborhood you are (one area one day, another area-Another)
this is better than garbage cans on the street everyday day. trucks and
208 None
214 Provide smaller bins, our garage space is very limited, no storing regular trash cans
outside so we would have to find space for additional bin
215 I think this is long overdue!
225 Need to reduce the cost as much as possible! I don’t recycle right now because of the
cost and I trust what they are doing at the resource recovery plant.
228 Concern is flat free regardless of volume generated by resident.
229 Thrilled to have it. Now how about municipal trash? ;)
232 It’s about time! Shocking that no curbside recycling
233 If the cart provided is smaller than 96 gallons, pickup should occur at least once
every two weeks.
235 I would love to have a recycling program. Would need to educate the public about
what is acceptable to recycle (no greasy boxes, washed containers, certain plastics,
etc)
238 Seriously consider including additional plastics. Several communities the size of
Ames accepts #1-7. I realize MRF capability is critical but updates to sorting equip
has made significant progress. Markets exist. Waste Commission of Scott County
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has experience with expanded plastics. I am guessing they have been one of many
Iowa solid waste agency discussions. 65 gallon carts are likely sufficient. DNR has a
program called the Solid Waste Alternatives Program (SWAP) offering forgivable, 0%
and 3% loans for all things leading to landfill diversion including carts, equip,
construction, public awareness. This program assisted many other Iowa communities
for very similar projects. Maintaining drop off is critical for MFUs and rural residents.
And finally, food waste curbside collection needs to be addressed while this process
proceeds. Sharing an anaerobic digester is an opportunity to generate electricity,
reduce hazardous air emissions, and educate students and citizens.
239 Availability to all of county
244 We would like to see more composting in addition to the recycling.
245 Thank you for helping the environment
246 Recycling is crucial to our future. This is such an important asset to our community!!
247 find recycling for more plastic types
248 I would absolutely love to have this service available.
249 LOVE THIS IDEA
254 This is a great idea and we would definitely participate
259 How much willThis cost? All recyclables go on on cart; does this mean they will be
separated at another location?
260 Should be free.
264 It would be nice if the cost added to utility bills is the same or less than what residents
currently pay for private hauler service. Hopefully a city contract would provide better
per household rates than individually contracting does.
270 Do it for the young folks in the apartment buildings. Leave residential alone.
271 It is long overdue!
273 I think it's nonsense and not at all an intelligent or efficient use of city man power or
funds. It's a 0/10 idea.
275 I think it is a great idea!
276 The residential curbside recycling program in Ames is a good initiative and could
improve recycling rates. However, the program does not accept certain types of
plastic waste, and it would not reduce my household costs compared to my current
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private garbage service ($23/month). Because of this, I would not support the
program unless it could handle all household plastics and provide a clear cost benefit.
278 Having a curbside pickup seems expensive. In European cities they have community
recycling points. It's similar to what we have now, but many more sites. They were
dumpsters arranged around a hard surface. Maybe these could be at grocery stores?
279 This should be an optional program
281 Please keep everything as as.
282 We are ready for curbside recycling!
285 If there is no curbsite recycling offered for multifamily (more then 5 residences)),
please DO NOT add a monthly fee for people living in the multifamily units (over 6
families in a building). That would NOT be fair to those of us who are not receiving
curbsite pickup!
286 I currently have curbside recycling through WM. It comes every other week, and I
have a terrible time remembering if it’s an on week or off week. Not sure if there’s a
better way to schedule. Also, I would want clear instruction on what can be included
in the bins. I know sometimes if a bin has things that are dirty, wet, or can’t be
recycled, the whole bin goes to the landfill.
287 Continuing the service at the recovery plant may help people outside of Ames
301 Is it possible to have an electronics drop off site too?
306 Need to still have drop-off containers because of the transient community (increased
need during move out times) and increase cardboard/paper waste during holidays.
310 Concerned about added cost. Why not make it free or low cost like $5/month? Not
everyone who would be willing to recycle will do it if cost prohibitive.
311 opt out would be good for small volume generators
314 we are being forced to now pay extra to do the "normal" type of recycling when we
were told for years what Ames was doing in the past was better for the environment,
and was free? This news is very depressing.
316 If the City makes a profit from selling recyclable items, then don't charge us!
320 Is my recycling actually being recycled?
323 It's so wild that there's not municipal trash and recycling in Ames! Economies of
scale, wear and tear on the roads, noise pollution...
324 I prefer current burning of trash for power generation
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332 Please find a way to work with landlords to properly recycle on the property. If it's a
dumpster that anyone can access, a lot of trash will go in it, defeating the purpose of
recycling. Otherwise, find a way to increase walking distance receptacles/bins. For
example, a drop off bin at the somerset business area by greater iowa bank.
334 Great idea! We used that successfully in the city in which we previously lived.
338 Even though I prefer to drop off recyclables if more people would recycle with
curbside I am happy
339 I would like to know the price added to utilities before deciding.
340 I'd really like recycling options for apartment complexes. It's a hassle to have to drive
across town to dump my recycling every couple of weeks. I do it, but it's a pain!
344 One person household. Prefer smaller tote pick up twice monthly. Options of tote
sizes for smaller and larger households would be good. One major concern I have
now is the number and frequency of trucks in my neighborhood for yard waste and
trash pick ups. At least four companies for trash and large Aspen yard waste trucks -
lots of noise, fumes, and wear and tear on the streets. I used to live in Clive where
they contracted different parts of town for a single company, so only one truck pass
per week for trash and one for recycling, rather than multiple. I actively participated in
recycling then and do now. I am retired and do like the idea of curbside recycling pick
up as I think more homes would participate. I started taking my recycling to the RRC
in the last 6 months (have separated glass for multiple years), but would appreciate
the ease of curbside. Those who work full time and drive a small car would be likely
to appreciate it too. Thank you for exploring this.
345 Urbandale Iowa has a week of Spring Clean-up. So many items are reused or
picked up for scrap metal by individuals. This keeps a lot of items from going to the
landfill. When I lived in Urbandale hardly anything was left for the city to pick up.
349 Have transparent and sustainable recycling options. Share city work with residents
351 Concerned about price increase
352 I need to know more about the cost by before expressing much interest in this
project. Recycling is important, but with free options available I need to know the
financial impact on my family.
353 Would residents be charged for this service?
354 I have large amounts of e-waste, mostly old PCBs and pc components, I don't want
to throw them away in the trash so urbandale is usually the best option right now.
355 City should leave the service to the private vendors. I don't want to pay for a service I
can currently do at no cost.
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357 This would be a great addition.
358 Please do it!!!
361 cost, cost, cost, always more to citizens
364 So looking forward to this service so long that price is reasonable.
366 We are very excited for the prospect of residential recycling and hope there can also
be yard waste collection.
371 Making it easy has always been the focus on recycling, hence single containers.
Sorting out the mixed materials has always been a problem when relying on single
containers; allowing cross contamination which then has to be handled at a facility is
costly and degrades recycling materials. Commercial recycling, while different, would
also need to be incorporated into the system. Organic waste would still need to be
captured, separately. As usual, there would have to be a not insignificant
commitment to education ahead, and in the early phase(s), of such a program.
Changing to curbside would, or at least should, be an opportunity for Ames to sort out
the unnecessarily messy, noisy, and costly confusion of multiple haulers with large,
heavy vehicles coming through neighborhoods on various pickup days.
372 Any type of offering is better than none
373 I don't want to pay more for a regular pickup. There should be a way to opt out of the
extra cost and not participate.
376 None
384 My only concern is re-education. People need to know when the trash begins going
to landfills (and should have been notified when it has happened previously) as many
of them have been trained to throw everything together and think it will get sorted.
Batteries are a good example of this. I am constantly teaching the community about
our current trash and recycling programs.
385 Recycling pickup should be free to encourage more regular usage of recycling in the
community.
389 Think about older people who cant physically manage all this and dont drive to take
items to a drop off location. Consider also the apartment buildings that would have
overflowing carts and cans. You're right to take a survey - if every
390 Yes please!
395 It would be great to hear the data behind the amount of recycling Ames is doing (to
celebrate). Or maybe set a goal each year? Facts and figures on how recycling is
helping the planet?
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403 I think having the drop-off sites is so very helpful because there are times where you
just don't have enough space in the can. Especially for the cardboard
405 Would be very useful for senior citizens
407 Could I still take batteries and light bulbs to the Resource Recovery Center?
408 I would love to this option pair with a municipal trash service as well. There are trash
pick-ups in my neighborhood at least four days a week, sometimes as early as 5:45
am.
15 None
412 I work in a factory that recycles its different paper types and I think one method of
sorting that we have benefited from is having a designated container for the sorted
paper from the start. Maybe a simple container provided to households that choose to
participate would help get the ball rolling on habit forming with actually sorting out
products that can be recycled with this program.
414 Similar to discussions happening regarding garbage hauling, I would love to one day
see this as a city owned utility service
417 I pay enough for trash pickup, probably not interested in paying more.
421 I think options in the size of container and frequency of pickup are very important
when considering how much cost households are willing to take on. However, I think
this is a great idea. I hope there will be a viable solution soon for all the apartment
complexes/large multi-family residences.
425 This is a program that sounds wonderful but I question in reality what real difference it
would actually make and in fact might even add environmental risk due to more trash
truck traffic.
426 I currently don't bother with recycling because there is no curbside option.
427 See above needs to be a choice to participate and not a mandate and as cheap as
possible if not free
436 I am concerned about cost. There is no estimate of cost and I anticipate a monopoly
where the cost will be very limiting.
438 I would love to be able to start recycling more without having to drive to do it!
439 I am concerned about the additional cost.
443 A fantastic idea. This will spur the non-recyling people to become a more
environmentally responsible person by being "forced into" recycling.
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444 Lived in Iowa City, they would not take curb side glass pick-up because of safety
issues for their workers. Somethin you should think about.
445 Make sure it is effective. All materials should be recycled, not trashed. Offer
residents who can’t afford cost other options.
446 None
451 This isn't about curbside, but please take a look at the Cedar Falls recycling center.
It is a convenient drive up facility, easy to use with stations for each recyclable and is
free of charge.
454 Education! It is so important to educate about the impact of recycling
457 I think this is a GREAT idea!! I’m very supportive
460 Contamination is a main concern. Would composting still be available?
463 This should be more affordable than the current private options (e.g. Waste
Management).
464 Standard cart size is 64 gal—make it too big and people won’t have a way to store
them
468 Will this be free?
471 I am very much in favor and hopefully it will be a smidge cheaper then paying for it
through my garbage provider.
472 We would want the option to take large cardboard pieces to the recovery plant if they
are hard to get into the bin.
474 Keep it accessible for people who care but can't afford service by keeping drop off
sites open if possible.
478 I love the idea of residential curbside recylcing through the city. We recycle everyday
and would love to have this as an option.
482 I don't need it and I don't want it
483 Our other plastics besides one and two not recyclable? Why are those not included.
484 Excited for this change! Much needed!
485 Curbside recycling would be terrific and worth the additional cost
490 I think this is a great idea! I would also be interested in one-off recycling days for
electronics, car-seats, tires, batteries, and more.
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492 I don’t think it would be as needed if residents were more aware of the resource
recovery drop off. It took over a year for me to discover that I can recycle if I just drop
it all off there. It was also a large hassle though and there is not a space in west
Ames for this. The rrc is on the far opposite side of town from where I used to live.
495 We need to make sure we don't add to the already too large number of heavy trucks
that come along residential streets to pick up garbage. At an estimated 40-60 percent
of wear and tear these mean streets need to be repaired 1.5 times more often, thus
1.5 times more cost to the city. That's huge!
496 Including the pricing in our land taxes so I don't have to b pay the city of Ames every
month, twice. (Water/Electricity)
497 This would be such an improvement from loading it all up in the car! I think the
convenience would out weigh the cost/fees.
498 Current understanding is this doesn't happen because of the incinerator/power
generation. An article about what that will look like would be nice. ALSO Cityside as a
direct email instead of a link at the bottom of the bill would be more likely to be read
by paperless customers.
499 I am interested in curbside recycling
500 Is cost pushed to all residents on all utility bills, or rather only those who use? How
would this be tracked?
501 I don’t like curb side recycling
503 I lived in a rural community in the 90's that had mandatory recycling. This is great. I
still see so many that do zero recycling. In that community, if your recycling was put
in the regular garbage, it wasn't picked up and fines were implemented
508 I would love if we had recycling in Ames! I always feel awful for throwing away
recycling things.
509 N/a
511 Would love some insight into cost. Could there be a bundle discount if purchasing
garbage and recycling together
512 None
516 I've been waiting a long time for curbside recycling. I hope this doesn't get put on the
back burner!
519 look forward to curbside recycling
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523 Fees should not exceed those currently offered by private haulers Keep or expand
drop off sites for those in multi family to participate. Require businesses to participate
also.
527 It would be great to have a place near campus for students to bring their recycling.
Many people do not have cars
530 I’d like it if we could fin a solution for other plastic types that include more than just #1
and 2 plastics.
533 Lots of education of public before starting.
537 None
543 I think significant education is needed on what should be recycled and how to
prepare it properly. It must be obvious and continuous.
546 Please clarify the related “fee” associated with the recycling. Is this fee assessed to
all residents, or just those with a recycling container? How much is this fee? What is
the basis for this fee? What will be basis for fee changes?
547 With rising electricity and other utility prices, I’m concerned about the cost. It’s very
important to continue free drop off sites for those who can’t afford/don’t want
residential pick up. I’ve been faithfully recycling since learning about the drop off bins
at Resource Recovery and generate a significant amount of recyclable trash. If
people can’t afford residential pick up and trash isn’t used to generate power
anymore, the amount of trash going to the landfill will increase.
548 I feel very positive about the plans you have developed. Thank you.
550 I answered as I did for question #12 because we use Resource Recovery for
old/broken electrical appliances and solvents. Where would they go otherwise?
555 Thanks for moving forward with re-cycling initiatives!
556 As long as fees are not prohibitive I think it's a great idea.
559 Keeping the glass containers and other drop off containers would be important for
other community clean up efforts that fall outside private households.
560 Will there be a cost for this? We already have 2 bins (garbage and yard waste), three
bins is a lot to fit on the curb on one day. Would pickup be the same day as our other
bins?
562 I think that public drop-off areas will still be beneficial for those people who don't pay
for curbside recycling, or for larger jobs. I would absolutely LOVE to pay the city for
curbside trash and recycling!!!
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563 We have been using natural gas at the power plant for about 10 years. From the get
go there were issues recognized burning with RDF. why does the city wait that long
to come up with a plan to keep the power plant sustainable and knee jerk reaction to
recycling. There was ample time to save money and justify a solution other than just
driving 70+ miles one way to put it into a hole in the ground and preach how "green"
we are being
565 The amount of cardboard we have from deliveries will require weekly pick up for a
drop off.
566 Recycling is so important. I really liked the old system where all the trash and
recyclables were burned and used for energy.
568 I would recycle if the benefits outweigh the costs.
569 Love the pickup option - I know our family would be more likely to us that then a drop
place
570 Curbside recycling allows people to fill a bin and forget about it. They won’t think
much about where stuff goes. That’s why the drop off options must be maintained
571 I think this is an amazing idea and a long time coming. I hope we do the same for
yard waste and move garbage service to be more energy efficient by having zones
(but only if I can keep my recycling and yard waste pickup I have now in some form
with city or carrier)
572 Consolidate Haulers, particularly during construction on arterial roads, Grand and
Duff
573 I have been hoping for something like this since moving to Ames. Driving to the
recycling center is not always convenient, especially when it’s cold and there are lots
of people there at the same time
575 What if I want to opt out? Can I use the self service option?
576 Has consideration been given to curbside composting?
584 It's a shame that the waste-to-energy model has to go away; I'm not psyched about
the idea of a landfill. But if landfill is the only option, then I'd like the city to pursue the
most comprehensive recycling program it can reasonably afford. Also--I live in a
house with an alley and I hope the city will maintain the alley as the location for our
"curbside" pickup--it's far preferable to the street-side curb.
585 What would the cost be for this service and would it be optional?
586 I like the idea of pick up
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587 I think it's great the city is looking into this as an option - I have no context for how the
"business" end is affected in all of this, but recycling technology is severely
underutilized in this country and Ames could really be a driving force over the next 5-
10 years.
588 This needs to be an opt-in program. We do not want the extra charge for curbside
recycling. The current disposal sites work just fine.
589 Curious if there will still be a food waste diversion program/place to drop off food
waste
592 I have concerns about the cost of recycling and it being a mandatory fee if this is
implemented. At my last address the town offered free recycling pickup every other
week. Garbage was paid but optional. I don't believe I should have to pay for both
garbage and recycling if I don't wish to do so.
593 My spouse would be so happy to not have the recycling collecting in the house until I
have time to take it to the Resource Center
595 Great initiative, we use a 96 gallon trash every other week and it works great for
recycling
596 I would also be interested in yard waste through the city as well
597 I think there need to be a trial period to determine size and frequency of containers.
We have had the Resource Recovery taking care of our recycling for 50 years, so a
new program will require an extensive education effort.
604 Cost would have to be very low to make curbside recycling preferable to the current
drop off system.
605 The curbside aspect will be extremely important for the success of this program.
606 I do not want increased traffic on our roadways related to curbside recycling.
610 My household would be very enthusiastic about curbside recycling and use it
regularly
611 This is an excellent idea, and it sets a precedence and important example to future
generations.
612 Do NOT increase my city taxes or fees.
613 Need to be clear what could go in this recycle program
616 Could plastic bags be included?
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621 It seems ironic that the city is suddenly interested in a recycling program because
trash will cost extra to haul rather than any of the environmental or social
consequences. Right action, wrong motivation.
622 It will be important to have bins accessible for students, multifamily residences,
businesses, and residences outside the Ames pick-up area. I currently pick up
recyclables from my church. Can businesses participate request a bin also ?
624 I enjoy recycling, but I notice many of my neighbors don’t recycle. Hopefully this
initiative would encourage more widespread recycling practices.
626 Why does the current system need to end?
628 I miss having it after living in other places that had it.
629 Excellent, long overdue
631 Placing recycling cans in places easy to access and free flowing traffic.
637 It would be nice to have the option to recycle other plastics in addition to plastics #1
and #2. Might also be nice to have an optional curbside compost program.
639 I am a single person and don't need a big cart and DO NOT NEED more charges on
utility bill when once a month I can and do go to the recycling site monthly!
640 We need this. It should be a top priority.
641 I think this service is long overdue; I do think it will be a learning process and
changes could be made if needed
643 None
644 Long overdue!
648 I'm excited about the potential program. I used to have a program like this back in WI
but haven't been as good about recycling since moving to Ames because of the
additional work and cost involved with the current system.
650 Great idea
651 Not exactly sure I understand what qualifies as mixed paper.
653 I think this is a great idea
654 I would absolutely love this!!! Please start this as soon as possible! I’m tired of driving
letting my recycling build up and drive it to the center.
655 I lived in a community where the City managed both refuse and recycling collections
(no private haulers). Residents paid for services along with water and and sewer and
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the City provided trash receptacles and two small bins/totes for recycling (one for
metal/glass, one for paper and cardboard). Collections were weekly.
656 Honestly I wish it would be a "free" service covered by the cost of our property taxes.
We pay plenty in taxes, and you'd have a LOT more compliance if people didn't have
to pay to participate. I grew up in new england in a town where both trash removal
and recycling pickup are municipal services included as pay of the taxes people pay.
Never have understood why Ames doesn't work the same.
658 Just make sure it is easy and convenient
662 Do it! Great idea.
663 Occasional greater/larger cardboard needs to be disposed of, so having an off-site
location to take that would be great.
665 Yes, we need curbside recycling! Find more ways to encourage less food waste and
home composting of kitchen and yard wastes.
667 this is a great idea, unless the fee is too high. Gainesville, Fl had curbside recycling,
and it was included in our taxes
670 No monthly fee added to utility bill.
672 Curbside recycling is great, but I’d also love to have more than one drop off site for
recycling
675 Answers to maintaining dropoff facilities is due to multi-family housing, not for use of
single family homes
676 Encourage large MFH unit tenants to recycle on their own.
679 I think this a great idea. It would be great to also educate the public that the recycled
items have to be clean.
681 What would we do with plastics labeled 3-7?
685 What's wrong with the city doing the sorting
686 Would there be a separate container for glass and plastics? Would it have handles?
Could the bins be a different color like yellow (as we have garbage can in a variety of
colors now -green, reds maybe blue.
693 Recycling has been previously attempted, with limited success. Is any Ames resident
other than City staff 'exited' about this? Why are you planning a new facility that will
be inadequate in a few years? Has there historically been a market for recyclables?
What happens to 'recyclables' when there is no market?
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696 Questioning why other plastics (butter tubs, etc.) cannot be recycled here as they
were in a smaller community where we lived before
697 Education about what is acceptable versus not acceptable is going to be key if this
goes into effect
698 Can we add composting buckets as well
702 Probably wouldn't participate, lack of space to have another can
709 I think having drop off sites will be important because depending on price I may elect
not to do curbside
710 A short guide with tips and FAQs that I can put on my fridge (magnet?) or near my in-
home collection spot. Don't expect people to always go to the website everything they
have a question about recycling a can or bottle, and few people will print something
themselves. I'm typically against producing more waste, but this is a case where the
benefits can definitely support increased recycling. Something small with a QR code
might do the trick, but a postcard size with the basics would be great.
712 I think this is a good idea while phasing out of the previous Resource Recovery
facility processes. I would much prefer recycling over landfilling.
715 Looking forward to participating.
718 I am SO excited about this possibility! Less "errands" for me to run to drop off
recycling!
720 Would recycling include fabric items?
722 We feel recycling is very important but have a lot of trouble getting out to the
community drop off stations so recycling piles up. Home pick up would be life-
changing.
725 It would have been helpful to have an estimated cost that residents will have to pay.
We don't have a lot of items that would be recycled so if the cost is quite high, we
would continue using the drop-off sites.
732 I would love to see curbside recycling here! I actually use recycling more than trash
so this would be amazing! People don't realize much they can recycle until it's easy
and convenient!
734 I love this idea. We have 2 busy kids so it is sometimes hard for us to make it to the
resource recovery plant to drop off recyclables so I have found myself throwing tings
in the trash sometimes.
738 As stated above, please separate glass. Additionally, what are we supposed to do
with plastics #3-7? I also want to know more about what happens to the garbage and
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recycling after they're picked up. And why would we still have to pay for garbage pick
up separately? The amount of carbon emissions and inefficient waste contributed by
all the trash hauling companies is a big concern for me! It's gotten so much worse in
the last 15 years that we've lived here. Why are other cities more conservation-
minded than Ames?
744 I would like more information as to why the current process is changing.
749 Any curbside recycling service should allow more than just #1 and #2 plastics. The
majority of food containers (like yogurt containers) are made of #5 plastic. I think it is
critical to allow curbside recycling of #5 plastic. Our current provider, Aspen Waste,
allows us to recycle plastics #1 through #7. There is a company called PureCycle
which recycles #5 plastics; perhaps the city could partner with them. If a curbside
provider won't take them, then please make sure that bins are available for self-
service recycling of #5 plastics. I'm confident that Ames residents would gladly
recycle #5 plastic to keep it out of the landfill, if they had a place to recycle it.
750 I think it would be great to have a recycling bin/dumpster like container for recyclables
outside my apartment building, even now with the current system. It is very
inconvenient to go to drop off sites for items like glass that should not be put into the
trash. I am happy to clean and separate my glass, metal, paper, or whatever, but it is
very inconvenient to go somewhere else to recycle it. I know very few people who
actually utilize these drop off site for their recyclables. Lastly, I feel that a curbside
recycling system for large multi-family housing should be prioritized since the volume
of recyclables from these building will be higher.
752 I think it should be made very clear what can and cannot be included. Diagrams sent
out via mail, posted on social media, etc.
753 Moved 1 year ago from community that had recycling bins that we used regularly.
Found it odd Ames did not have this program as it was around other community for
20+ years. Glad to see Ames is getting with the times!
756 Would also like to see seasonal - Spring and Fall - pick up of brush and yard waste
for composting. Also Christmas tree pick up
757 How would it apply to the college campus and those residents in apartments.
764 Cost needs to be reasonable (or have an opt-out option) since the city would pretty
much have a monopoly on this so there isn't an option to find a cheaper company,
and I'm already paying for trash service. I also live alone and wouldn't fill a container
nearly as fast as a multiple-person household, so maybe having a less expensive
option that only picks up every couple weeks rather than every week
766 Separate containers for different things?
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767 Please look at a better system for yard waste or more frequent free days. I live in a
strict HOA that requires constant weeding and I have nowhere to dispose of the
waste. I can’t afford to pay to get rid of it all the time, so I have bags and bags
stashed in my garage. It’s not ideal.
771 I hope we get it to European standards! Multi recycling in all public spaces and lots of
education on PROPER recycling!!
772 I love that you are exploring this!
774 Education to the public is important on what can properly be recycled. Also
information on whether the items are actually getting recycled or sent overseas to be
disposed of. Recycling is a great option and I use it, but it cannot replace reducing
consumption for environmental benefits. Educating people is key
776 Please implement curbside recycling, I think it’s very important. We moved here from
Ankeny where we had curbside recycling and it was very seamless and the monthly
charge included tree and branch days, clean up days, dumpsters for fall leaf drop off
all at no extra charge.
777 The cost to homeowners
778 So excited!
780 Very glad to hear this is being proposed- have wished the city would offer this
service. I hope this leads towards a unified city approach to garbage pickup too- don’t
understand having so many companies in one city. I wish more plastics were
accepted for recycling
782 What about food waste?
783 Needs to be opt in, not required.
785 I would love residential curbside recycling!!
788 I fully support the program even if I personally will not bennift right away. it will be
essential to recycle as we shift away from RDF and organized collection is infinitly
preferable to everyone making the trip out to the R3C in East Ames (even assuming
everyone would, which is unlikely).
789 Just an idea - Offer a separated container for soda cans etc with deposit. More of a
hassle to return to the store than the few bucks you get back so we just currently toss
them. We would be just include them with recycling if curbside comes. Simply not
worth the mess and hassle for normal can redemption anymore.
791 Keeping the cardboard drop off option is a great idea for those times big packages
come - nice to keep that option open
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796 N/A
797 Too many garbage trucks each week —can we consolidate
798 Many Ames residents have been wanting a curbside program for sometime. This
helps share the responsibility across town and makes it easier for everyone to
participate.
799 Good idea if it’s not too expensive
802 I’d like to see curbside food pickup for composting.
803 dedication to the program by the community
805 better EDUCATION of HOW to do it . Such as how to separate 3 kinds in ONE
garbage can
806 Would be nice to offer a full-size option (similar to most garbage bins) and something
1/2 or 3/4 that size, as it can be difficult to find space for all the big containers
(including yard waste)..
807 Will there be any options for handling food waste, to be composted? Any new plans
for yard waste disposal? Guidance will be needed regarding exactly what and how
items should be recycled (eg, remove caps from bottles or plastic jars? Wash empty
cans and jars? Flatten cans?)
809 We need curbside compost too! Iowa City has a great curbside compost program.
Compostables would significantly reduce waste volumes (I’ve heard it can be 40% of
the waste stream), and as far as I understand, I think it’s more reliably and more
easily repurposed. Like, recycling requires lots of processes nd energy to actually get
the materials back into a new product. But all the compostables quickly break down
into good compost that can be used locally. Maybe sell the finished compost cheaply
to the community or offer it for free, like the woodchips. And if there’s not enough
interest in the finished compost, it could be spread on fields along with the residual
solids from the wastewater treatment plant.
811 I wouldn't want much of an increase in my utility bill. I currently pay 20 monthly for
weekly garbage pickup. I would gladly opt in to bi-weekly pickup if there's a cheaper
option than weekly. Would not be willing to spend more than $5-10 extra for recycling
when I drop mine off for free now.
814 Education will be extremely important. As a lifelong resident, the Resource Recovery
Plant essentially made me ignorant to recycling rules. Definitely a huge change, but
we want to reduce waste. Please also push more info on community composting.
Overall I'm very discouraged by the fact we will be going to the landfill and would like
to do what we can to not contribute to that issue.
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817 I think it's going to take a lot of community education after so many years of not
having the option.
819 not fully related - but would love composting services (food scraps, yard waste)
820 Multiple options needed. Not all of us live in Ames or have regular trash pickup.
823 It will be a big culture change for people and will require an education campaign
825 Quite disappointing the current Center concept can't be expanded...it is a far better
solution. This new idea adds additional costs in more ways than one, you're forcing
an added (unwanted) service to residents, while eliminating a source of power
creation...all I see are inept ideas that will raise my expeneses.
827 Optical sort thru python scripting with yolo software
830 Additional drop off locations for food waste, especially in north Ames.
846 Glad to see this in development. It’s much needed.
847 I would appreciate curbside recycling!
852 Yard waste pickup
853 Without truck it’s hard to move yard waste easily. A can for that, or the option to throw
it in a regular can would be helpful in spring and fall.
855 I support the city doing curbside recycling collection. Also support city doing the trash
too. Would reduce number and trucks and trips and fuel usage and emissions
857 We already recycle all the glass, paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and food waste
that we can. We canceled our trash service because the two of us only produce
about 1/3 of a bag of trash per month. Curbside recycling sounds nice, but I don't
want to pay for it. If the cost can be covered by what it currently takes to maintain the
drop containers at the plant, then sure, sign me up.
858 Clearly label how to recycle (rinse containers etc) and then what can be recycled and
what cannot be. (create picture checklist with words). Don't make the recycling
program cost a lot, or let the county cover the cost to encourage residents to sort
their garbage properly. Americans use a lot of plastic and most are very unaware how
to recycle, and the the majority will not bother to if it costs them money or takes too
much work. Create incentives, clear guidance.
859 Will you actually recycle or are you just green washing
863 We only have 1 earth, so reducing barriers to recycling is essential to get people on
board. Thanks for taking up this initiative and providing openly for Ames residents to
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recycle and compost. (Separately, I’d LOVE more compost bins around town - one at
every grocery store???)
865 If that service is not free, I would prefer to drop them in the drop-off sites
868 I try to reuse in any way that i can. recycling things would be a GREAT move for
ames.
870 Keep free and accessible places around the community. Make sure to have pictures
and examples of items that are recyclable.
871 I think this is a great idea and it's about time Ames offered residential curbside
recycling.
872 I believe it should be a free service. You should definitely maintain the containers at
Resource Recovery if you're going to charge for this service.
877 education in schools?
882 it's a great idea. also include compost.
888 I live in Nevada and I would love to have curbside recycling!
889 pay with taxes
890 smaller bins are better for short people
891 a fridge magnet with recycling tips would be helpful - do i take the paper off tin cans?
do you keep the twist off cap with the bottle?
892 Why isn't composting included?
893 Should also pick up trash, there are so many different trash trucks going down my
street I can’t imagine a less efficient way to do this.
894 is it cost effective for the city to have a recycling program?
897 Information on where recycing goes, i.e., customer assurance that the items are
actually recycled
898 Great idea
901 I am the only person in my household and a 96 gallon is way too big for my use. I
recycle now and I barely have 1 bag a week for regular trash pick-up.
902 A very clear graphic to help understand what can be recycled.
904 Required monthly service fee - how is this established? No option to go avoid fee by
going with private service? Is the private contractor reputable, is this material going to
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be effectively recycled, and is there transparency to ensure the contractor is fulfilling
that obligation?
905 No fee
907 options for difference size bins once this process starts and a household gets a better
feel for how large or small their containers need to be
909 It can't cost more than the private companies charge
912 I wonder how dangerous to mix glasses in the recycling materials for sorters. Do they
break when collecting in the trucks? Then is it better to have free recycling drop offs
at grocery parking lots or people visits often.
914 Charge more for non-recycled trash than for recycled trash to encourage residents to
participate.
919 Check out Plastics Recycling in Iowa Falls, Iowa as a model or possible company to
contract with.
922 Not a good idea. It's just a "feeling good" project for the city for appearance
purposes.
923 I don't think this should be mandatory.
924 Will this be offered to story co? Eg Nevada
925 Perhaps focusing on developing/implementing/encouraging better ( less wasteful)
packaging (partner with ISU?) or better central processing/separating) would lead to
real progress in reducing waste. Curbside recycling will deliver minimal reduction in
landfill waste
927 Make it optional. Some families can’t afford the extra cost.
930 Sizing of the carts and how often they will need to be picked up will very quite a bit if
you consider the family size. Offering once a week or once every two weeks as an
option would fit different household sizes needs. By keeping the option of containers
to be used at the plant it would give options to one person properties but a small one
time fee could be charged for the containers.
932 I'm glad this will be an option.
933 All good stuff
935 Live in Webster City, own a house in Ames - this should have happened a long time
ago in Ames. We fill our bin in Webster City weekly. I hate having to throw away
recycles when in Ames.
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939 Think this is a great idea.
943 Would prefer modest size containers and maintain community drop off for less
frequent larger amounts
945 It is unfair to force residents to pay for a program they won't use. It should be
optional.
950 It is not clear currently if this is an optional service that will be charged only if used
952 Compostable wet gsrbagecrecycling
954 Paying for recycling should be optional not mandatory
956 So excited to have it available
959 Please also explore trash pickup as a city utility. It is so silly to have numerous trucks
down our street every week. Curbside yard waste would also be great.
961 Before I moved to Ames, curbside recycling was available and I used it. I currently
take things to the resource recovery, but I am getting older and don't know how much
longer I will be able to drive. I would like the option to continue to recycle
962 If this is offered community-wide, it should be on an opt-in basis only, and at no
additional monthly cost.
963 We need to offer this as garbage is out of control.
967 We currently use Ahrens Sanitation as our garbage service, and they provide
constant reliable service. And I wish to continue using a local company after having
multiple issues with another nation wide company. ( While handling my mother’s
estate this other company could not be contacted easily, and it was very difficult to
get service terminated and the billing issues corrected.)
968 How about food waste? Will that be picked up, too? If I still have to go drop it off, I'd
rather bring all my recyclables with me and avoid the extra fee.
969 Looking for reassurance recycling is happening. Have seen recycling trucks dumping
at landfill in past. Also wanted to mention we had experience with a biweekly
recycling service. Even as family of 3 we would have it full each week. It was also
challenging to keep track of which week was recycling day. I’d also want more
information about expected cost and if we have ability to opt out of the program if it
doesn’t work for us.
970 This is a huge change. I am sad it is necessary. You need to change your language
around fees. This isn't optional right? People should have a 'fee' if they do not
recycle. I should pay less if i can avoid lots of garbage going to the landfill.
Recycling is going to add work even to those of us already doing the easiest things
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like glass and cardboard. I am wondering what will happen with the food drop off
(compost) component? Will yard waste handling remain the same? What about
household oils?
974 No suggestions because team is already doing best as per my knowledge.
975 So many apartments in Ames - please find a way to include them for curbside pickup
976 Recycling bin MUST have a lid.
977 PLEASE bring curbside recycling to Ames! I am an avid recycler and it is difficult to
carry it to my car, not have it spill out and then bring to the right place. Other
neighbors won’t bother- too much effort.
980 I also live in another community and very seldom use the recycle bin but do use the
glass drop off sites located in the comunnity.
985 I don’t recycle because there’s only one of me at my house.. .. and I want to choose
my own garbage person.
987 Make it easy to use. Everything in one recycling container seems like a good idea.
988 We will still need drop off locations for recyclable materials that are out and about in
the community for various reasons. Such as cleaning out estates for example or
community services that come upon these items for different reasons.
989 Assume we would still be required to have private garbage collection
990 No recycling
995 It’s ridiculous a community as progressive and large as Ames can’t figure out
curbside recycling for all residents including multi family units.
996 I really don't like the added mandatory cost, and so far in survey no questions about
the cost. I wonder if existing haulers could compete for recycling as well and keep
costs down. Not all households can afford an extra $10-20/mo(?) on top of trash
service. I worry the city signing a contract with a single hauler will create a monopoly.
999 I am concerned about additional fees. Could the city negotiate with local haulers to
lower other garbage charges. Since much will be recycled, actual garbage will be
less. Less pick up necessary.
1006 Separate bins for household recycling, paper, and yard waste. This is what Des
Moines does.
1008 I have my recycling picked up every two weeks and I use two 96 containers (those
delivery boxes and packaging boxes add up!). Have an option to double up on
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containers. Also, if it costs me more than using my current garbage service, I will not
use Ames services. Why can't Ames offer garbage pick up as well??
1009 There are already recycling areas around town. We don't want our prices increased
for a service we won't use.
1010 Cities are implementing things to kick the little haulers out of town.
1012 Please do not increase our utility bill. People on fixed income cannot afford it. Taxes
are high enough.
1014 I’d like to know more about the “reputable” companies the city will work with to
process the recycling after it’s picked up and also more about “industry standards”.
1015 Make it easy to discontinue service thru private hauler
1016 Recycling is important. I hope there will be a way to include the apartment units of
60+ Communities in any curb-side program.
1018 I live in Green Hills Retirement Community. Would you pick up here?
1019 Why don’t you buy land and create your own landfill?
1020 I live at the Green Hills Retirement Community and we have on-site bins for glass
and cardboard. We are disappointed that the Kiwani's no longr collect newspapers.
Residents are confused about not recycling paper. I'm not sure how food waste will
be handled. I bring food waste to the current recycling bin. Residents at all levels
need education in the importance of recycling.
1022 This is BS
1024 Composting
1033 I really wish the city would consider keeping the burn for energy verse more landfill
1034 Limiting pickup in the city would be great! We have garbage trucks in our
neighborhood everyday and it is too much big traffic.
1036 Instead of costing more to recycle, it would be great if we could get a credit (even as
little as $2 a month) to encourage participation.
1040 It would be nice to be able to recycle other plastics as well as 1 & 2
1041 Please do this and switch to a city contract garbage pickup provider.
1042 I think it'd be important to keep the cost of the reasonable. There should also be a
way to opt out of recycling for those who do not want it or it cost is to high for them.
Keeping cardboard drop-off would be key for larger prices that could not fit in the bin.
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1044 Will be good to have a neighborhood(not every house holder) container for glass,
paper and garden waste.
1046 Visit the sanitation department in Columbia, MO. They had an excellent recycling
sustem.
1047 keep the free areas
1048 I prefer weekly and secure containers
1051 The more often it is picked up, the better. I hope we see enough demand to move to
weekly. At least while it is biweekly and maybe longer, it would be great to maintain
the drop-off sites.
1053 I detest forced curbside recycling. Why are you not able to continue with the existing
system? That has not been explained. Many communities tried the approach you are
describing and abandoned it because it was not workable long term for residents..
1054 I think it is great to recycle all of this.
1061 The sooner the better. We need to recycle
1062 This is a great idea!
1064 Yet another big truck coming around the neighborhoods in addition to all the garbage
pick up trucks?! No thank you.
1070 I prefer the current system. Sorry to see it end.
1073 Options to opt in to select recycling, or have a once every so often pickup for
categories that are already maintained at the resource recovery plant could be
beneficial. Options such as textiles, food waste, and other areas.
1075 It’s about time!
1081 Curbside recycling is already an option with trash service. It would be better if the city
handled trash collection with neighborhoods following the same collection schedules
1092 Will it increas the number of trucks going by all the time? Already too many from too
many different companies(like 6+ a morning now, even saw 2 different companies
follw each other down the alley)
1093 Clear guidelines about what items are acceptable are imperative to make this
program work.
1094 It is about time. We have very little garbage and most of what we have is recyclable.
1096 You should accept more plastics.
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1100 The drop-off site is not working as well as it could be because the city dies not
properly maintain ut and dies nit remive full containers in a timely manner. I think
curbside revycling would be a step forward, but I am not crazy about giving even
more of my money to the city.
1102 What will the cost be for single family residence?
1104 Our house generates at least 3x more recycling than trash. Make it an opt out
program with a free alternative. Incentives to recycle. Simply making it cost the
homeowner and minimizing costs for the city is not incentivizing. Keep and maintain
drop off sites.
1107 Can we get trash pick up also?
1109 This is fantastic, but needs to be cost affective. I would advise to keep the drop off
sites open until you see how effective the individual use is. Access again after a year
to see if they are needed.
1110 Keep the waste to energy program
1111 Would neighborhood drop off sites be feasible?
1114 What about yard waste?
1117 It's crucial that you provide constant educational/reminder information to all
participants about the importance of the guidelines for recycling. I have personally
participated in a recycling program in another community where residents put
contaminated items in their recycle bin which then spoils an entire load, i.e. pizza
boxes, food in jars, etc. For some its lack of awareness and understanding, for others
they just don't care.
1118 For senior citizens on a tight budget, a "required fee" could be a challenge. Please
consider that a senior citizen will recycle significantly less recyclables than a family of
5.
1119 Cost, there should be options to size and cost of containers. Not all households have
the same amount of waste.
1121 We are all for it
1123 Our household uses a lot of diapers. We also have an amazing amount of food
waste.
1125 It’s about time!
1126 I believe the free recycling drop off points ought to remain as not everyone will be
able to afford the “bin” service!
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1127 Interested in how much this is going to cost. Would my garbage costs go down if we
aren’t using them as often?
1128 Want to maintain my current garbage provider
1130 Has to be picked up exactly where our garbage is picked up. Ours is in the alley
behind our house where our garage is. We WILL NOT PARTICIPATE if we have to
haul anything to the front curb.
1132 If this is optional we probably would not do it if we have to get it out to the curb. We
would continue to take ouy glass to the public bins.
1133 Need a yard waste option
1137 This should be a free service.
1140 Wondering if we'll be separating each class of items.
1141 None at this time.
1142 Very happy to have this under consideration. I currently use the drop off center but at
76 yo I would welcome curbside recycling if available!
1143 Please offer it
1145 The city should also consider taking over trash pickup in a similar fashion to the
proposed recycling pickup.
1146 Where is plastic bags included in this?
1147 Thank you for making a pick up program. Time and hauling my own materials are
current barriers to my household recycling
1148 I think it’s interesting there would be a fee. Iowa city has done this for years with no
added fees.
1149 I recycle regularly at the drop off sight. The compost bin is huge for me, so I would
take recycling with me. I have also seen how stupid people are and more plastic will
end up in the can that is not accepted. Maybe this will benefit the elderly, but could
they afford?
1150 Why isn't composting being considered to reduce waste?
1157 How many containers? What needs to be separated. Card board v paper.
1158 Realize that Ames has a fairly large homeless population so if you really want to “go
green” then free options are a necessity. And others like myself don’t always even
have $10 left at the end of the month to pay for the new recycling bin
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1161 Knowing exactly what I can recycle
1164 Getting people to sort properly.
1170 maybe neighbors could share a recycling bin to save money and reduce the number
of bins on the street.
1171 I lived in a city that had this. It was really good. I filled that container almost every
time. I think this will be a good idea for ames.
1173 I would need to be educated about the types of plastics that could be recycled.
1177 If I use the containers down at City Hall, will I still have to pay for a recycling tote?
1180 We did something similar in the late 90s and it was great. Glass was the problem.
Too many were putting the wrong kinds of glass and that became a mess. When we
lived in Des. Moines we really like the Waste Management recycling container.
1182 Should have happened earlier!
1184 I would not like to have more traffic of the pick up. To have curbside side cost is
prohibiting to my budget. I presently drop my own recycling off monthly to self sever
locations.
1188 This is wonderful- thank you for this work!
1189 It would be a great convenience and therefore more people would recycle
1191 the idea is great if we were going to recycle, but as I said above recycling is a scam.
REDUCE, REUSE (our current resource recovery is a great example of this), and if
you can't do the better things, try to recycle (it won't happen -- it's going to get
shipped all over and generate MORE carbon and still get put in the landfill because
most material can't actually be recycled -- especially plastic) You could try
composting paper, for example, and glass can be sanitized and refilled (used to be
what was done before plastic bottles)
1192 Would there still be organic recycling of compost.
1203 I would like the drop-off sites to remain because ai use it a lot as a Story County
resident and no one in the area offers recycling.
1205 Vandalism of teens, etc., coming and make a mess or breaking glass, etc. waiting for
the items to be picked up
1209 The cost of recycling services was a major concern for us in the past. We stopped
our recycling services to save money. It seems everyone in Ames will be charged for
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recycling under the proposed plan. If this is the case, please make it cost effective for
homeowners.
1213 It should be optional
1216 If I choose to not participate in the curbside recycling program am I still charged the
fee?
1217 With the proposed cart size, my household would only need it picked up once a
month. Could that frequency be available?
1222 Make the recycling container pleasing to the eye. We have lots of ugly ones already.
1224 Please consider adding styrofoam as an accepted material. City of Cedar Falls has a
model that could be replicated
1227 It would be helpful to have details about what can and can’t be recycled, on the can
itself to prevent wish cycling of things like food contaminated paper (pizza boxes) or
non-recyclable plastics like food wrap.
1228 It is important to keep the cost affordable.
1229 Will this be free of charge?
1230 Let’s go for composting too!!!
1232 What will this cost
1241 Pls pick up leaves, grass, branches. This is the s8ngle greatest thing we have.
1243 I am incredibly sad that the resource recovery plant will no longer be available in
2027. I would like to see that continued or renewed instead of resorting to a landfill.
1245 It would nice to have a curbside food waste option. I understand that isn't likely, so I
think it is important to keep a dropoff site.
1247 Upgrade the MRF, separate organics and paper and use enzymes and make an
anaerobic difeter to make natural gas for power plant
1248 Provide a list of dos and donts for recycling to make sure what i recycle is correct
1249 Program should include more plastic classes, like 1-7 and not just 1-2
1254 Would composting still be available at new RRC?
1258 This is something that has been needed for a long time
1263 Not sure if we have room for another container
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1265 I think the fee is going to piss a lot of people off. I needs to feel like a discount in
some way. Like garbage will be going up this much and equals to getting a recycling
bin.
1267 I currently can recycle 1, 2, and 5 plastics. So I'm reading this as plastic recycling
would be more limited.
1269 If the City stops free recycling at the Plant, would they consider recycling containers
near large apartment complexes?
1270 While I do not currently live in a multi-family unit I have lived in many in Ames. I would
have preferred bringing my recyclables to a designated container on the property if
made available.
1275 Why is it not viable in 2027? Thought we have a model system that other cities
should have, maybe what/why it is happening could be better explained. Is there two
garbage pick up days? Regular and recycle? Do we get discount from Chitty or other
contractor if someone else picks up trash that they would have picked up?
1283 I would be curious about cost as it currently is about $11/mo which seems
reasonable, but #1-7 are accepted.
1284 None
1287 I do not want to pay for this service.
1288 The city we used to live in collected far more recyclable items in the bins, things like
plastic bags and wires even. The more items that can be included, along with weekly
pickups significantly increases recycling participation.
1289 Not in favor of curbside recycling
1292 Just another cost pushed to residents. Also another trash can to be setting around
properties.
1293 I will need a $400 city of Ames grant to enlarge infrastructure for additional poly-carts
1294 Is there an explanation why bringing recyclables to ARR is no longer an option. It is
unclear to me if metal- other than cans- will be able to be put in a recycling cart
1298 This is not fair to make this a mandatory requirement and charge. We are not in favor
of this.
1300 Cost should be minimal. I would rather take Recyclables to a drop off than pay a
pickup fee
1301 I am not looking forward to having another bin to deal with.
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1305 I'm glad to see this being considered - I have been hoping for a program like this for a
long time!
1307 No mandatory fee for those who choose not to use.
1310 What about garbage??
1311 If there is curbside recycling, would people be more respectful of what can and
cannot be recycled? It is disappointing to see items that get dumped off at a recycling
site (microwave, for example). Would residents follow the rules? I hope so!
1314 It will take too much room to store the bins - if the city maintains the citywide drop off
sites for persons having an event that generates a lot - then I could utilize a smaller
regular bin
1315 None
1322 Paperboard needs to be included
1063 Very much looking forward to easier ways to keep more things out of the landfill.
1326 I would love to have curbside recycling
1327 I had the understanding that our refuse to fuel was better than recycling as so much
of recycling ends up in landfills. I would appreciate education (email is fine) on why
that will not be pursued in the future and why its not considered superior.
1328 I like having cardboard recycling sites available. When I have a large amount of
cardboard, I don't want to store it until recycling day. I want to get rid of it asap.
1329 Is it optional? What about people that cannot afford the added fee?
1331 Also consider yard waste / food compost pickup. A number of cities do this in addition
to recycling.
1332 None
1335 Cost
1339 Previously lived in Cazenovia, NY where recycling was mandatory. Residents were
required to use clear bags for garbage. If recyclables appeared in clear bags, pickup
did not occur until following week.
1340 smaller recycling bin than my regular trash can so it takes up less room and a
different color so easy know which one is for recycling. Also it would be great if Ames
had one or two companies that we had to use for regular trash pick up so not so
many different large trucks on the residential roads in town.
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1342 I like that we currently burn trash for energy. What will become of the curbside
recycled items and what will the cost be to homeowners? Unless everyone
participates, you will still need free drop off locations. I don’t have a good spot for
another trash container so would rather take my recycling to free drop off locations.
1343 Food waste drop off needs to continue
1349 We live in Gilbert and our trash goes to Boone. If drop off recycling is still available
we could continue to use those services. I also always liked that Ames burned their
trash so these changes will be interesting for the community.
1354 Make it affordable to all households so they adopt it
1356 smaller more separate recycling containers is also good (glass, metal, cardboard, ...)
1357 I don’t want to pay for the curbside recycling service if I can continue using the free
self service containers.
1358 Extra fee for us with already high price trash removal
1359 I would like households to get a bin for organic - leaves, weeds, plant debris, kitchen
compost
1363 I'm excited about it! I hope others are too.
1370 Will we still have garbage service from a private provider? How do you handle items
not considered recyclable?
1374 I appreciate the convenience
1376 Apartments having recycling
1380 Don't charge for it
1381 The monthly charge should be based on someone’s income. Too many people are
charged too much for services when there are more than enough well off people to
help carry extra weight.
1384 Assuming this will be an additional cost to each resident? One of the reasons I used
to love Ames is because we didn't have to recycle (traditionally) since our garbage
was burned for fuel. This is what happens when we trade coal for gas.
1386 We moved from a city that offered curbside recycling which we utilized. Would be
very excited to see this happen in Ames!
1391 Been nice the last 17yrs I’ve lost ved in Story Ciry to not have to go through the
trouble of separating recyclables.
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1395 This needs to be a free service. I won’t recycle if I have to pay for it.
1398 Check with Webster City….we moved here from there and they had this type of
system.
1400 I wish we could stay with the current system
1403 I would LOVE a single stream recycling program.
1404 This seems like another way for the city to tax us.
1405 Need more options for plastic recycling (besides #1 and #2)
1411 You should not force a recycling fee on residents that already pay high taxes
1413 Need weekly pickup!
1414 I moved here from another city, state who offed this for free and saw it utilized by our
community.
1424 What about plastics that are labeled #1 or #2 that aren't twist off lid containers?
1426 Price will be critical, we already pay $20 per month for trash removal and hardly fill
0.25 of the container why pay more for two almost empty containers
1427 Don’t really want it
1428 I am concerned about things actually getting recycled. Lots of reports discuss things
just getting dumped in landfills in the end. I would still like to continue the resource
recovery center.
1429 A pamphlet that describes what can and cannot be recycled will be helpful for people
less experienced. Be sure to explain why some items cannot be recycled for
motivation.
1430 Do we know that the recyclable items would actually be recycled, or would they
ultimately end up in the trash? Also if cost was a barrier to residents using curbside
recycling, it would be nice to have the option for free drop-off
1431 Limiting plastics to only screw cap bottles, 1 and 2, is way to restrictive. Recycling
needs to be able to process plastic tubs in other numbers. That is a huge portion of
residential plastic trash.
1433 Keep pick up every other week. We use Aspen currently
1435 Please, please allow the residents of Ames to keep our current trash company and
not force us to go with just one company.
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1436 The program is similar to what we did when we moved to Ames in 2011. Then we
were told that everything just went to the resource recovery center, so we separated
glass and cardboard and sent the rest.
1437 Make it easy for private trash companies to pick up the recycling bins so we can keep
all of our trash and recycling with one entity. Continue to allow residents to choose
their trash company.
1438 You should add weekly curbside composting as well for additional trash reduction.
More people would compost if you had that.
1439 We don’t want to leave the waste to energy program. This was something we deeply
love about our community.
1442 I could make it work but prefer using drop off
1443 We’ve never recycled so it’s hard to think we’d have yet another bill when things are
already very expensive
1445 I'd be very glad to have it. usually it all just goes in the trash except glass sometimes
1448 I’m very excited. I think education is importantly and to be sure to provide materials
that support public buy-in for this program to be a success.
1449 My large cans sit outside. Maybe there could be an option for a smaller kitchen.
Garbage size can to add recycling and then that can be dumped in the large can on a
less frequent basis. It would be challenging to walk outside with a specific piece of
recycling multiple times a day, especially during bad weather. I know some newer
kitchen remodels have options for two trash cans in a pullout drawer. But most
homes and Ames barely have space for one normal trashcan in the kitchen so I could
see that being a barrier.
1456 Hate to see streets lined with garbage cans
1457 A waste food a bio mass digestion system that could add energy back to the power
plant and reduce that waste that can't be recycled
1458 I want to make sure the recycling actually goes into sustainable recycling and not just
sold off into landfills as a end spot
1460 This would be amazing!!
1463 I feel it's sad that politics were allowed to influence the path of what was a great
resource for trash disposal and energy production. Reinvesting in the original process
with coal or gasification is the fiscal and environmentally responsible choice
Transporting our trash to other locations will cost more and have a negative
environmental impact. A transparent investigation should be conducted.
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1469 Please start this service!
1474 Please have a clear printed/printable graphic of allowable items
1479 Get rid of can and bottle deposit. In Illinois we recycled almost as much as trash on a
weekly basis! I didn't have to worry about getting my money back from deposits ams
finding a place to turn in my cans and bottles.
1480 Another community I lived in also did composting. Is that on the horizon as well to
remove food waste from the dump?
1483 I LOVE the idea of having a municipal recycling program in Ames! This is a very
important service for the community, and also for the health/sustainability of our
planet. I would think that local drop off sites for glass would not be needed, but some
limited local cardboard drop off, especially for bulk events (think moving boxes) would
still be helpful.
1485 The biggest question I have had about the current recycling initiative is why only
twist-off plastics are able to be recycled and not other plastics. I usually end up
separating my plastics and taking my non twist off plastics to my mother in law in a
different community so she can recycle them. The other thing I would like to see
would be for the City to provide a LOT of education to residents about how to
appropriately recycle. For example, do labels have to be off containers, how clean do
they have to be, etc. I always hear that a lot of recycled material ends up getting
landfilled anyway because it wasn't recycled "appropriately", so would love to see
education on this.
1490 I have a bunch of questions that should be answered in your communications
strategy for this change: Some waste management companies already offer curbside
recycling. Would the city's recycling fee be competitive with waste management
companies? If we preferred to contract with our current waste management company,
would we still be obligated to pay the city utility fee anyway? Is it required to
participate in the city's recycling program, or can residents opt out?
1492 Some way to collect the "other" plastics not considered recyclable (fast food plastic,
plastc lids, straws, & cups)
1494 I really wish you would still burn trash, this makes me so sad.
1495 Recycling enters (both independent and publicly run) have a notoriously awful
reputation everywhere. Unless the City were to include a verifiable and consiatent
compliance audit of any and all recycling organizations involved, I would not be
interested and do not believe it to be worth the cost.
1497 Apartment dwellers need more options. We're left out of most initiatives in Ames.
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1499 Instead of forcing people to recycle try adding incentives. Maybe work with trash
companies to lower prices for those who recycle or utility costs go down for those that
recycle. But trying to force people to recycle is damaging to or freedom of choice and
will make people think twice before moving to Ames.
1501 Recycling bin for our multi-family residence.
1508 I prefer to not sort recyclables so a container for all recyclables is a great idea.
1509 Would like to see additional items like batteries and yard waste offered
1510 I would be more interested in curb side recycling that was sorted as I understand
single container recycling is not always effective.
1512 don't want this to increase waste truck traffic on residential streets. concerned,
unmentioned in survey -- how we will handle organic waste???? literally a messy
issue, but huge consideration for waste and water. maybe neighborhood drop-offs
can be established? maybe the city could offer rebates for rotate-able compost bins?
the goal overall should be to reduce the volume of waste.
1513 I live within a mile of Ames but have no idea if Ames will be willing to take my
recyclables even if I pay.
1514 Must be cost neutral
1522 Lived in Austin, TX for many years and this is how we did it. Had a container/curbside
designated for recyclables.
1526 We have too many we have too many trash trucks on the road.
1529 my carrier will charge more
1530 Curb side Yard waste pick up needs to happen.the lack of options is ridiculous.
1534 Before this starts, maybe send out information about how to recycle plastics.
1535 Cardboard bundling should be an option somehow.
1536 None. Do it!
1538 Mor likely to recycle
1539 We regularly make trips to the drop-off site at the Resource Recovery Plant,
occasionally making a special trip or driving out-of-the way otherwise. Excited to not
have to do this, both to save time and gas. Would like to see carriers separated by
street as we have 2-3 different carriers serving our small circle. I've always been
proud of Ames cutting edge, but agree that it is time for something better. Be bold.
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1542 Sections of city handled by different contract haulers for competitive advantage. Like
each voting district with a different hauler.
1543 No to this idea
1544 Should have recycling options downtown and in campus and tailgating.
1546 Why? They just combine the recycling containers into the same vehicle and landfill
everything.
1548 Would the private contractor for the pick ups be paying the city for recyclables?
Would that offset the cost passed on to residents for the recycling? I think charging
residents for the service would "force" more people to recycle since they would be
paying for it anyway.
1552 I love this idea!
1557 I hope we don't have multiple recycling companies driving around Ames like we do
trash pick up. One company per neighborhood works fine.
1560 What recycling options are there for plastics not #1 or #2? Why can't they be recycled
or why can't manufacturers use #1 and #2 instead? ALSO, the City and ISU need to
do a much better job of educating and encouraging residents to stop throwing usable
items into the trash. It's epidemic and shameful in Ames. No excuses when we have
so many outlets for used items. I appreciate all that ISU and Ames are trying to do,
but public education (and public caring) are unfortunately still too low.
1561 Thank you for pursuing this
1562 Please establish Ames as an example city for recycling. We can do this and this is
important to our community, city, state, and the planet.
1563 What we need is something like Cycles Recycling. I loved them so much! My HoA
didn't have a leg to stand on whining about "too many heavy trucks on the roads"
because it was bikes. I was able to have my recycling, and they came to my door,
used small containers that was all I needed every month. It was so great and I was
very sad when the closed doors. To add, there's reason why the order of the
sustainability mantra is REDUCE, reuse, recycle. What does reduce and reuse look
like for our community?
1564 Find a processor that can take all numbers of plastic. Would you still bill people who
do not have a container for pickup? Could there be neighborhood containers so not
everyone has to have one?
1565 The sooner this happens, the better!
1566 Lower frequency - incentivized by self-drop off - encourages breaking down
cardboard and washing off organics, in my opinion. Taking advantage of this, I would
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support a fee per pick-up and a schedulable pick-up as it encourages households to
cache as much as possible (which has the advantage of fewer pick ups, broken down
cardboard, and less organics). I feel compelled to ask why plastic recycling is
included. It has the least recycle value and is hardest to break down, increasing costs
of the program.
1570 What about metal?
1573 Compost?
1574 It would raise our rates exponentially! Being on a fixed income, I can't afford that!
1575 We do have concerns about increased truck traffic on our streets (due to emissions
and street damage). We're so glad that Ames is implementing a curbside recycling
program, and we hope that there are considerations to avoid the issues we are
currently facing with trash pick-up, where everyone has different providers on the
same street, which increases emissions and street damage and decreases efficiency.
We answered "very important" to questions 10-12 because the proposed program
says it won't include larger multi-family housing (and there are a lot of apartment and
condo complexes in Ames). If curbside recycling is available for larger multi-family
housing as well, then we don't think the cardboard and glass pick-up sites are as
important. But if curbside will not be available, it's very important to have that option
for students and others, like us, who live in larger multi-family housing.
1576 This would be great!
1577 I'm pleased it's going to happen in Ames
1579 Please consider allowing #5 plastics to be recycled seeing as those are most fruit and
salad containers which make up a majority of our plastic waste.
1581 I recycle through Aspen and I regularly have 4-5 times or more recycling volume than
trash. It's amazing how much is recycling
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ID# 15. What barriers may your household have to curbside recycling? (no character
limit)
2 Containers to separate and bring them to recycling center
4 None
5 Test
14 My only barrier would be whether or not I produce enough recyclable materials to
warrant the cost to me. But I do support the city going in this direction.
16 Space to put a large recycling container, or ways to filter containers so it doesn’t
contain non recyclable materials
17 Cost. $20 a month or less seems reasonable to try and keep recyclables out of the
trash stream.
18 Cost - if it's too expensive we won't do it.
19 fees
22 Cost
24 Bin storage maybe
27 Some weeks heavier than other
29 People are less likely to use it.
30 Cost is obviously a factor but otherwise we are on board!
33 Just raise in billing.
34 I don't have access to it because my landlord does not provide that service.
38 None
40 We travel often. Would we have to pay when we are not using the service?
42 Cannot afford to pay for curbside recycling. Should not be mandatory.
43 None! I’ll even sort it if needed!
44 None
48 Similar to recycling in ISU dorms, multi-family units with a single recycling location
may collect more contamination with the use of trash bags. Not everyone understands
how to recycle (especially students.) Ensuring that it is clearly marked recycling is
important!
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47 No barriers at all
52 Time to sort and developing habits to sort trash items
53 None. I need this
56 remembering to put the bins out to the curb
57 No barriers! Ames is behind the times in not having this in place. Let’s do this!
59 Living in apartment and having the necessary big enough things for everyone true
cycle with
64 None
69 I think it is costly to do have recycling each week.
70 None
71 Single disabled person. Cant always get cart to curb. Would collectors get & return
cart if designated as disabled?
72 additional expense.
76 I don't like the idea of paying an additionL fee in addition to what I pay now for trash
removal.
79 None
80 Cost.
81 Too high of a cost
83 Getting it out to the end of my driveway.
86 difficult to remember every other week pick up, make it the same for everyone so
easier to remember when you see neighbors carts at the curbside
88 Cost
89 Potentially cost, room for another bin, remembering to wheel it out and to start
separating recycling
93 none - we had it before and miss it
98 Just make sure to give clear instructions or a visual guide on the container about pre-
cleaning, and what is/isn't recyclable so we don't accidentally "wish-cycle" the wrong
things. Like, are k-cups okay if grounds are emptied, etc.?
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105 None
107 The biggest barrier would be if cost for this service is too high. We would be eager to
participate if cost was not too high.
109 cost of service
114 Money!!! The last thing I want to do is find more money somewhere, that I don’t have,
for some kind of new fee that will be added to a city bill. There is ZERO indication in
the other online story/news post, about how much this could be. The other
barrier…just throwing trash out. Now 4 people in our household can’t just throw stuff in
our kitchen trash can? We have to be thinking about separating. I have NO space for a
second trash can in my kitchen. And I don’t want to walk outside every time to throw a
specific recycling item away. No attached garage so no option to have the recycle bin
in a useful location.
115 recycling containers picked up every other week become sticky smelly rodent and
insect magnets. Recycling has been proven to largely be a scam/raquet. Hard pass on
this whole idea. Option to opt out please.
117 We currently recycle glass mostly because it does not cost as any extra fees even
though it takes time to wash jars. You are asking us to continue recycling but now we
will be charged for it. It does not make sense.
118 One that I can forseeu.
119 I feel like cost depending on amount would be the biggest factor for me
122 No room for containers. Make neighborhood look like junk yard.
123 None!
126 None
129 Space to have another container in the garage besides our garbage can.
132 I have a long driveway that is half gravel and half paved. My current refuse collector
walks up the gravel portion to collect my trash. On many occasions in the winter
months, I would not be able to roll a recycling cart over the gravel portion to the curb.
As noted in no. 14, there is no provision in your current plan for food waste recycling. I
would still have to continue driving to the recycling plant to divert my food waste. This
omission makes the proposed program not very practical for me.
134 Prefer to have smaller container picked up more frequent
138 Would be easier for us than using the current dropoff
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139 None
148 None
149 Cost
150 Cost
152 Before living in Ames, I always recycled because it was so convenient. I lived in a
small rural town and we had to buy city-specific garbage bags, but that allowed for
curb-side recycling - was super convenient and easy and also was a short drive to the
recyling containers. The primary reason I haven't recylced since moving to Ames is
the cost to do so, as well as living in a rental, space is already quite limited, so to hold
on to recycleables until I have time to drop them off is not feasible. I end up throwing
everything (including soda cans since can redemption is also no longer convenient),
but figured was okay since Ames used the energy from burning waste, figured that
was a good alternative.
153 Costs. I also do not notice any solutions to yard and limb waste. That is more needed
in my opinion. Currently the only people that can utilize the yard waste days are
people with trucks that can wait in line half a day to get rid of sticks.
158 None
170 None
171 Like it!
172 When I travel for enjoyment or to help family, I need to find someone to manage my
bin.
174 Cost
177 Weather
178 There are no barriers currently. With free choice of what garbage service we use in
Ames there are no barriers.
179 Multifamily housing complex
180 Already paid according to Womens’ Club demands.
181 None
184 Space in garage to keep the container
188 Cost may be too high.
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189 Potential cost
190 The time and inconvenience of having to separate and clean glass, plastic and cans
from regular trash, keeping another bin in the house to do so, keeping 2 large cans
outside.
192 I’m not paying for it.
193 Can we have a choice is choosing private hauler?
194 Getting the can to the curb, ensuring things are clean if that is a requirement
198 None
200 Cost. Finding a place for a third large containter (we already have garbage and yard
waste)
201 For me, I favor any recycling efforts. Only barrier I see is learning which type of
plastics can be recycled. Now I have figured out #2 plastic…will need to learn about
#1 plastic.
206 None!
208 None
215 Remembering to put out the container
223 Room to store the cart in our garage. The HOA prohibits keeping the van outside.
224 Cost of service
225 Cost of service
233 We want assurance that the recycling process truly takes place. In our previous
community, we recycled rigorously for years, only to later discover that the materials
were ultimately mixed with trash at the end. It was deeply disheartening. Transparency
about what happens to recycled items after collection is essential to build trust with
citizens and ensure successful participation in the program.
235 It seems people at my complex still haven't figured out how to throw away trash
properly, let alone recycle properly
238 None
239 Rural resident
244 Adding another big truck to our already busy garbage truck schedule would be
unpleasant.
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245 Cost
260 No barriers.
270 All the unsightly containers at homes and on the curb
275 None
276 My household currently uses a monthly private garbage service ($23/month). The
curbside recycling program does not accept some plastics, and using it would not
allow us to cancel our existing service, so there is no cost savings. In addition, strong
winds can tip over bins, large bins take up space, and cleaning recyclables adds extra
effort. Unless the program can accept all plastics and offer a clear reduction in
household expenses, the personal effort and cost outweigh the benefits.
278 I am concerned about cost. I am also concerned if recycling works.
281 Knowledge that most "recycled" plastic does not get recycled and goes to landfill. Do
your research people!!!
283 Storing a second bin. Old habits.
284 Monthly cost
285 We live in a multi-family building (over 6 residences)
286 Remembering when it goes out!
287 None
301 None
305 none, we already do this with a different company
310 Not keen on having a 3rd 96 gallon container to store along with regular trash and
yard waste...
314 Not sure where we will put the container. We have a nice (expensive) garbage can
enclosure outside that hides the view from others, but it only fits our one garbage can
328 We live on a cul-de-sac. No place to store the Cart
331 Cost
332 In multifamily areas, such as apartments, if the landlord doesn't take it seriously,
residents wont, potentially leading to "contaminated" or trash on recycle bins.
334 must be able to combine all items, i.e., no need to separate
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336 No room to store the cart!
338 None except cost
340 Apparently, living in a large apartment complex.
344 I don’t have any, but could see options helpful to those with smaller garages or who
(like my mother) are not strong enough to handle a large tote - especially in winter.
345 I'm not sure what to do with different light bulbs and batteries. Are all types of light
bulbs considered glass? Can I throw used batteries in the garbage?
352 The cost of living is very high right now. Imagining my utilities going up any higher
makes me anxious.
353 Would food garbage still be available?
355 Increased city bill
357 Cost
358 None
363 What to do with Other misc recyclable materials
368 Cost for pickup
371 My household would have no problems but would not need a large container; single
family hshlds with kids would probably need large containers. Multi-family locations
would need multiple large containers.
373 Cost
376 None
380 separating recyclables before putting into the cans
389 Senior community where the majority could not physically manage it.
395 N/A
399 Hopefully not over priced.
405 None
15 None
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412 Since I live in a multi family complex, and we have limited space in our parking lot, it
may take some work with management to find the best location for a recycling bin
between pick-up dates.
414 We would definitely need to adjust our habits after 10+ years of living in Ames and
throwing out everything but cans and glass! Perhaps a fridge magnet or similar
showing what can/cannot be recycled would be helpful for households?
417 Not interested in anything that add to any costs.
423 None
425 We just don't believe the cost, procedures, rules, etc. of a program like this are truly
worth it. In the end it just makes people feel good more than actually help the
environment.
427 Cost
431 Cost
433 Added cost
436 I am concerned about cost. There is no estimate of cost and I anticipate a monopoly
where the cost will be very limiting.
437 None
439 As mentioned above, no room in a single garage for an additional container.
443 none
444 none
445 None
446 Cost for this service.
451 Location
454 Money. It depends on the cost, but I already go to the recovery center
455 None
460 Cost.
463 None
474 None here.
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476 Not understanding recyclable products need to be cleaned prior to their disposal.
484 None
485 None
490 None. We do it already.
492 The cost. What would the fee be added to our utility bill? With no clear answer on that,
it’s hard to be okay with this as the cost is a big factor for many residents. Would I be
able to opt out of this if I’d rather just drop off for free?
495 We might choose to take things to RR some of the time since sorting-at-source is a bit
more effective. However there will be times when we would appreciate the
convenience of just accumulating things in a bin.
497 Depending on the fee, that could impact some people.
498 Monthly cost
499 Does it actually get recycled? I have heard so many stories that recycling just ends up
in landfill, and I don’t want to pay extra for that.
500 A large metal container would take one of 15 parking spots.
501 Makes neighborhoods look bad with cans/ containers everywhere, smell, issues with
things blowing around from storms and storage of containers
502 The cost for something I already do independently and free of charge (dropping off at
RR). Also, storage of another container in my garage is not ideal and I do not want to
store outside.
503 None
505 Cost. Where to store the bin.
509 N/a
511 None
512 None
516 None
518 Limited space to put recycling container. I already have a garage can and yard waste
can.
519 none
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527 Space
537 None
538 The cost should be part of the fees that our property taxes pay, shouldn’t be an
additional fee if everyone is required to do it.
539 I am 83 and it is getting harder and harder to even get my garbage can to the curb -
especially in the winter months when the drive is wet or slick. I am also not able to
haul it to the resource recovery and load and unload it from my car.
543 Space in the the recycling cart - rarely will be an issue if 96 gal.
546 Place to keep an additional container. We’ll figure out something to make it work.
547 Paying for it. I’m an older adult on a fixed income.
555 Condo association logistics.
556 NA
559 N/A
562 None, would LOVE to pay the city for this service instead of a private provider! We
would love for the trash to be streamlined also, as we currently have several garbage
trucks come down our street every day, and if that could be reduce to one it would be
amazing!!! We have been very proud of our waste-to-energy here in Ames and are
incredibly sad to see it go :(
563 Knee jerk reaction is never the way to make a decision and this is all that this decision
is
565 It needs to be an bin with a lid, as it will need to stay outside as we do not have a
garage.
566 Cost…hopefully it won’t be too much.
568 Additional fees.
569 Cost
570 Price
576 Simply the cost. If the cost is reasonable, we're 100% on board
580 The price
581 Unsure what items could be included.
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584 N/A
585 Cost.
586 None-we use the drop off site at least every other week
588 I don’t want “can collectors” (homeless or otherwise) coming on our property and
digging through our recycling looking for cans and bottles to redeem at ABC.
592 Cost of service
595 None
596 None. I would love for Ames to offer recycling
597 not sure
610 None
611 None, please please please offer this! It's long overdue in a city like Ames.
612 My age and lack of interest.
616 The expense
619 Recycling needs to be convenient otherwise people won't do it
621 Not cost effective for the amount of recyclables our household produces when the
drop-off locations are free
622 None. I currently separate and recycle all these items and drop the at the Resource
Recovery Plant. Can i opt out of the curbside pick-up and continue what i am currently
doing ?
626 None
628 Lack of wind protection.
631 Not filling it up fast enough
639 NO place to store the cart!! Living on a fixed income I don't need another $5.00 on my
utility bill. How many days of the week does a garbage truck go my house with this
program another truck will be on our city streets................. Also I look out a window
and see neighbor's garbage carts at the curb EVERY DAY! NO one wants to see
another cart on out their window!
641 I don't have an issue; but older people might need help if they need to get these to the
curb as well
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643 None
648 My biggest concern would be cost of the program. We would likely be fine with the
monthly bill increase, but I worry about how it may strain finances of other families if it
exceeds around 10 dollars per month.
650 None
654 None
656 Besides where to put the cart, none for me. I can imagine the added expense will
deter many from electing to participate though
658 None
662 cost
663 Having a place to store the containers may be an issue.
665 Room and containers inside the house to store materials for recycling before they are
taken to the outside bin(s).
667 if fee is too high for our small household
669 My question would be with college students, and what options they would have for
recycling. Would you require apartment buildings to have a recycling only bin?
675 out of town, older household
679 Space in garage for another bin. But I would make this work.
680 No barriers.
686 Having the space to put the extra recycle bin outside of the house as to not make the
neighborhoods look trashy when people leave them out at the end of the driveway
more than a week! what fines would be put in place to make sure people are using
the possibly new program? Older adults in the community who aren't able to move
one let alone two trash bins. Is it possible for their to be a bin that can handle all the
recycling with a flip lid to put glass/plastic in one side then paper/cardboard on the
other side.
691 Extra work
693 No room for another container in the townhome garage. Completely opposed to a
mandatory recycling program.
697 None noted
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698 None? We love it
701 Fixed income
702 Don't want another can in garage
709 Price
710 Curbside with everything accepted in one receptacle takes care of the main barriers.
After that the uncertainty around doing things correctly is next.
712 None
720 Cost
722 The fee for pick up would need to be reasonable, which is a reason we did not utilize
Waste Management for trash which did offer recycling for an additional (expensive)
fee.
725 Can't think of any
727 The cost would really be the largest factor. If it was more than $10/month, I would
likely pass on participating. It would be ideal if it was free, it was in my previous
community and we rarely had more than 1 regular bag of trash a week.
731 Cleaning and sorting recyclables
732 I currently pay for Aspen for trash + recycling ($80 a month total) and live in West
Ames. For me to purchase a different company/use Ames, it would have to be similar
in price. It would also be cool if you could pay for the recycling on it's own so
neighbors can share resources easier (like one pays for trash and the other recycling).
738 You don't describe that the recycling should be clean. It's this no longer necessary?
743 NONE
744 Going from no cost to the cost is a barrier.
746 My garage is small and I’m sure the hoa will not allow a container outside.
750 Nothing, but maybe guidance/education on recycling and rules may be helpful for
some people and may help the system be more successful.
751 Cost
752 If all of this recycling can be done via one container, the barriers are very low.
753 Cost and if no options to do 1 time a month pick up .
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756 Cost
757 Another fee and another thing to remember to do.
764 Finding a place to store a second big outdoor bin
766 We want to keep system we have that is better for environment, landfills are a horrible
option, should only be used if absolutely necessary
771 We have 3 kids and 2 foster kids- cost is the barrier we haven’t done it yet
772 None
776 None
777 the cost
782 None
783 Remembering the pick up schedule.
785 Understanding proper identification of recyclable materials
788 Only that we currently live in a larger multi-famiky residence.
793 Forgetting to roll ot to the curb.
794 Remembering the pick-up day.
796 N/A
797 None
803 none at this time
804 It will depend on what the final rules are! What are the options if we do not sign up?
What will the cost be? Will we have to pay a fee even if we do not sign up? We are
all for this potential program depending on cost, but cannot commit at this time due to
the vagueness of this survey and the lack of information on rules at this time.
805 WHO does the separation . NEED much more education of ALL CITIZENS
806 How fully cleaned it needs to be first. Getting into the habit. The worst is if it's
confusing (e.g., some kinds of paper but not others).
807 None
808 storage space for container
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809 We’re frugal… how much will it cost? Would it be viable to just give everyone a
recycling and compost bin and „charge“ us for it through taxes? Personally, I would
feel better about it that way. The cost per person would be dramatically reduced if
everyone was forced to participate (or pay whether they participate or not) and the
system would be more efficient that way. Also, does this mean that there will no longer
be so many waste haulers driving around town? It’s always bugged me the amount of
traffic and duplicative emissions from having numerous different providers coming
through each neighborhood. (I think Iowa City’s compost program is socialized like
this. Maybe look at their model?)
813 Room to store another receptacle/bin
814 Definitely cost. This needs to be a very affordable program otherwise many families
won't or will not be able to utilize it.
817 Story County residents will need a *very* easy way to drop off recycling. Maybe
containers in each community if you aren't going to do curbside pick up?
820 I do not have garbage pickup service.
827 General laziness
851 Cost
852 None. It would make our lives so much easier.
853 None
855 Have to take it someone currently which isn’t realistic
858 None, other than more and more items are becoming recyclable and staying updated
would be needed. There are a lot of students in Ames, no one wants more fees.
Figure out how to implement city money to encourage and motivate residents to
recycle.
859 Cost, space
863 None. I love recycling!!
868 we live in an apartment, but would be willing to walk to a recycle bin
869 For me, following a schedule for pick-up is more of a challenge than dropping it off at
the resource plant as needed.
870 Not me, but some of my neighbors have trouble lifting heavy items. People with
disabilities may need help accessing these things.
871 None.
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872 The cost
882 cost. I can't afford it. I am willing to wash out cans and jars if it is free.
889 theft
892 none
893 Nine
898 None
900 None. This is a fantastic service!
902 Lack of knowledge on if this is truly the most sustainable way to handle waste. Is it just
getting shipped to China??
906 Large number of large cardboard don't fit well in bin. Need to keep drop off site.
907 space to store another bin
910 None!
913 I would like to see recycling picked up each week. Make recycling required. It's not
that hard!
914 When I lived in Germany, there were different color bags available for the different
types of recycled/trash - diapers went into black, hazardous medical waste was red,
non hazardous medical waste was blue, general household waste was yellow, etc.
This made sorting the items easier/safer for all. With everything going into one bin
without can liners, things would get messy and people would stop trying.
919 Space to sort the recycling from the trash
922 Mainly cost passed to the residents. Also the time it takes to sort the recyclables.
Mainly the increased expense for the service.
923 The additional cost.
925 Time, space, odors, additional truck traffic, low confidence that curbside recycling
really reduces landfill waste
930 Same as #8, cost considering your garbage pick up is an entire fee alone. Storage
area for another large container.
932 I don't forsee any barriers. We have been recycling for many years.
933 Kids
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935 Zero.
936 Don’t want to pay for it
939 None, takes away barriers.
940 Price, if it too costly I won’t like it. If it costs $10 per month when I’m paying $0 now
that won’t work.
941 Not enough space in containers for multi-family units
945 Space and income
952 Six unit apartment complex w/o specified recycling container oresently
954 Cost, can't trust the City of Ames. You all will make excuses to charge residents more
money with no justification
961 I live in multifamily setting
962 Cost. Storage of another large plastic refuse container.
963 Just containers with food is all.
968 None
969 Remembering the day to put it out on
970 Again, this is a big change. Years of habits need to be changed. Two biggest barriers
are education and space. It would be nice to have well done, displayable, cute
reminders to put near trash cans or cute containers to seperate in to prior to going
outside.
974 Old broken furniture and small household machines
976 Cost
977 None
988 Fees
990 No recycling
995 None
996 Cost
1006 Fees
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1012 None
1014 cost associated with the fee that will be automatically added to utility bill
1016 I live in a 60+ community
1018 No pickup at GH.
1020 No barriers for me. Living in a retirement community requires 'buy in' into the benefits
of this program.
1024 N/A
1027 Getting it to the curb. The small hill of my driveway qay is difficult for me already.
1032 None
1034 I’m concerned about cost as that is why o don’t recycle now…
1036 None
1037 Having another large smelly container on property
1038 Nowhere to put additional can
1040 None...very excited to see this program
1047 cost
1048 Broken glass… I have observed broken glass by the yellow dumpsters around town
1051 washing out and otherwise preparing items to be recycled
1053 Inadequate room for another garbage container. You are forcing residents to do all the
work and then you have the nerve to charge us a fee for your program!
1054 NONE
1061 None
1062 We live in a multi family complex so individual bins may not be practical.
1064 We have very little trash as is. It would take months to fill a 96 gallon can and that
size would take up too much space in our garage.
1065 I love in Gilbert but gave not had recycling because of the waste to energy program in
ames. What options will we have?
1081 Cost
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1089 I worry about the cost. Is this opt in? Is the fee minimal?
1090 No space for recycling bin
1094 None
1095 Very little space available in our garage for an additional garbage can
1102 None.
1108 Cost
1109 None.
1110 Cost
1112 Studio apartment (small size bien preferred)
1117 None for us at this time but appreciate that this question is included in the survey.
1118 Cost.
1119 This isn't a barrier, but how will these mixed recyclables get sorted?
1121 No barriers except MAYBE space in the garage for the bin—but we would figure that
out
1123 Some days it's difficult for me or my husband to get the the garbage can to the curb,
would help be available?
1126 None
1127 Costs. Paying for 2 services for garbage/recycling pickup. How many different
containers would be used. Since this would be new it will be a huge learning curve
about what goes where.
1128 Place to store in my garage
1130 We do not have a driveway at the front of our house. WE ARE NOT HAULING
ANYTHING ACROSS THE YARD OR THROUGH DRIFTS OF SNOW TO
PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROGRAM. H
1131 I would have trouble with weight of items and being outside in bad weather.
1132 Disability. Our current hauler comes into our back yard and picks up our trash.
1140 No barriers, just complete attitude change. Adjustment period may take a while.
1143 None
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1145 Hassle of separating out recyclable items, uncertainty about what can be recycled
1147 Knowing exactly what to recycle
1149 I would use the drop off because I compost food waste.
1154 Our HOA doesn't allow bins out except on collection day. We don't have room in our 1
car garage for 2 bins (regular and recycling).
1157 Depends on number and size of containers.
1158 Financial, knowing what actually can be recycled, vision
1161 Knowing exactly what I can recycle
1162 Finding space to store an additional container
1164 Senior housing, limited mobility for most.
1170 I personally don't see any barriers.
1171 None
1177 None
1179 Noted above.
1182 None
1189 Cost
1191 not going to pay for this
1196 Weekly pickup would be better ,easier to remember
1197 We have a trash and a yard waste bin and not much more space for a third bin, so a
smaller bin would probably be best for our two-person household. We compost and
use the city drop offs already
1198 Storing the extra container
1200 The fee
1203 I would like the drop-off sites to remain because ai use it a lot as a Story Coun
1205 Our janitor handle this for the art building complex
1213 No room to store the cart!
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1216 It would be preferable to have recycling and garbage picked up the same day to
reduce the number of trips required.
1217 Cost
1222 None
1223 I have the hardest time remembering what can be recycled and what can't
1227 None
1228 Storage space for cart
1232 Storing another container
1241 None
1243 Transportation
1247 Just another thing to do, to separate out. Easier just to throw everything in one bag
and have machines do the sorting like the mrf does
1248 If it costs too much money
1254 space for another trash container - we live in a townhome and share a driveway
1255 None
1257 Space to store the container
1258 None. Just do it already
1260 Cost over free drop sites
1261 Cost for some residents. (Not an issue for our household.)
1263 Cost of the fee on utility bill..
1265 Very confused as to what can and can't go in. How clean certain things need to be etc
1269 Storage of a bin. There should be an option for bin size each household wants.
1275 Paying for what is currently free? What if i rarely use the service, is there still a fee? I
hear stories about how people take the time to separate recycles and then they all get
thrown together and burned or buried.waste of peoples time and money.
1284 None
1287 I don't want to have another canI don't want to have another can.
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1288 Understanding what plastics might not be accepted, and running out of room in the
cart if pickup is not weekly.
1289 Not in favor of curbside recycling
1290 Additional space that is needed to a bin
1293 I would need a city grant to enlarge my 3 sided trashcan hiding fence. The current one
is only large enough for one (1) poly cart. I am guessing a $400 grant would help me
hire someone to build the new fence to hide the new poly cart.
1294 The recurring cost. I’d consider not recycling if it costs more.
1295 None
1296 Service cost
1298 We are working extremely hard to reduce expenses and this adds an expense that we
have no control of.
1300 Cost
1303 Training residents to recycle
1305 None.
1307 Cannot manage container.
1308 Cost
1310 I am 83 and it is especially hard for me to get down the drivewaywhen we have ice or
snow on the ground. Many times I have to wait for a better day.
1311 I am in a multi-family housing arrangement with senior citizens. It will be exciting to
see what options become available down the road! A barrier to senior citizens is
change. And learning new tricks!
1314 The big bin - handling it in winter
1315 None
1324 Cost
1063 None that I can think of now.
1326 None
1329 None
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1331 None
1332 None
1340 Remembering what can go in the recycling and what shouldn't. A magnet or flyer
would be great that could be put on my fridge as a reminder would be helpful.
1349 Sorting trash, space to store recycling before pick up, any requirements related to
cleaning before recycling
1351 We Live in the country. I imagine this would add an extra trip to the already stressed
collection companies. Do they have the staff to support? How much will it cost?
1354 None- excited for the opportunity to recycle and hope it doesn't end up hauled
off/dumped in waters/oceans
1356 moving the container to the front - currently use the alley for garbage pick-up
1357 Financial issues could arise if we’re forced to pay for services we won’t use when
they’re already free to use the self service containers.
1358 What to recycle, need list
1363 None
1370 Snow and ice condition in winter. Odor and insects, possible attracting mice for any
time over one to two days.
1376 Having no vehicle
1380 Cost of yet another monthly service fee
1384 time, space and cost
1385 Space for container.
1395 Paying for it. The cost of living is already high enough. I don’t need another bill.
1400 None
1402 Cost
1404 Storing another trash can
1414 None
1417 Curbside would be a waste of resources. Our family of 4 would take 2 months to fill a
96 gallon receptacle, and I believe we would be the norm. Consequently, you’d have
trucks burning fuel driving all over town picking up mostly empty containers.
Additionally, I don’t want to have to store another large container in the garage. I
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would prefer if the current system were expanded with more drop off points around
town.
1424 Cost
1426 Half of my waste is organic matter from litterbox cleaning
1431 None. We currently use curb side recycling and would like the city to provide the
service.
1433 None
1434 Training ourselves on how to separate trash and recycling.
1435 I'm concerned about having broken glass on our property from when the recycling
company comes to get the recycled materials. Also, the time it may take to take off
paper around metal cans.
1436 Just remembered which week is the one to set out the container.
1437 Cost
1439 We would probably stick with our private hauler?
1442 I prefer to use the resource recovery station location for recycling so that I can dispose
of recycling on my own schedule.
1443 Cost
1445 none i can think of
1448 Not sure yet.
1449 Explained above. I probably open my trashcan for a small family of 350 times a day. I
think 50% of that would probably qualify as recycling. I’m not going to walk through my
house and out of back slider to access my large curbside trash cans every time I need
to throw one piece away. I wonder if the city could supply small kitchen cans that are
labeled for recycling
1451 Additional Cost
1454 None
1456 Old
1457 None
1460 None! We would use this option to its fullest capabilities
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1462 Forget to use, as we are so used to not recycling things, if it becomes difficult to do, or
it costs a lot, then it could be a barrier
1465 It would be tedious and annoying
1471 Ease of cars to drive through
1478 Knowing what to do to prepare and collect recyclables. Written directions with photos
could be helpful to show what can be recycled .
1479 If I paid a bottle deposit on something I would not recycle it because I would need to
get my deposit money back. Everything else i would recycle.
1481 I live in a 30 unit multi family building. Without available bins, we don’t have room to
collect recyclables. Our condo is on the smaller side.
1483 Making sure I have the right list of things to deposit. I've seen bins deployed with signs
on them to avoid "Wishcycling" incorrect items that have to be sorted out. Definitely
prefer single stream and no bags.
1484 Remembering what materials (which plastics) are recyclable and which are not.
1485 No barriers besides education around what is and isn't acceptable!
1492 N/A
1494 We live on a really tight budget and most times I have declined the recycling programs
because of the fees.
1495 See previous answer.
1497 Inclement weather may move the recycling bin if it's too light, and drunk people may
puke or urinate in it.
1498 It would be better to accept more types of plastic but #1 & #2 is better than nothing
and good place to start.
1499 I don’t want to be forced to pay money to recycle.
1508 Storage and space for container.
1509 Low desire to find space for yet another container of that size, also separating waste
streams can be a hassle
1512 I'd like $ incentive/reward for reduced volumes of waste and recycle. I pay now for
full trash service /week that I simply don't need.
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1513 Please see #14. I am very careful about sorting and cleaning recyclables, but for all I
know, Ames will no longer allow me to drop off my recyclables or my garbage even if I
am willing to pay more than I do now to be able to do so.
1514 None
1515 Cost compared to our current provider
1516 Storing recycling bin
1520 Concerns about increased cost.
1522 Not having a bin and pickup services.
1524 We live in a 55+ retirement community with 28 units. Many residents seem to be
interested in recycling. I would think if we had 2or3 of the 96gal. carts they would
probably need to be emptied once a week.
1528 I remember years ago we a yellow buckets with glass to recycle. We put ours out to be
picked up. But someone came by and dumped the bucket and broke most of the
glass. I had to try and clean all the glass off my lawn. So I'm concerned that could
happen again.
1529 cost. timely pickup
1535 Storage of bins and separate bins indoors
1536 None. Do it!
1539 None!
1540 Cost
1542 Cart has to be kept outside. I don't have a garage. Bins after football games would be
full of recycling too often.
1544 Just need education on it. Didn’t recycle before because used for energy. Would be
nice option to have available.
1546 Why? They just combine the recycling containers into the same vehicle and landfill
everything.
1548 None
1555 In my experience 96 gallon containers are very hard to maneuver. Smaller containers
should be available for senior citizens, single family housing, and for anyone with
limited mobility.
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1560 None.
1562 None
1563 HoA (homeowner's association). Because of them I have no trash pick up and no
recycling now. They will probably continue to be an obstacle. I don't think they will
allow any curbside recycling.
1564 Knowing precisely what things can be recycled and how
1565 Need information to understand how to identify that the items are the correct
recyclable items.
1573 None
1574 Not requiring folks to separate their recyclables is pretty bad. Even at the present
recycling place, people don't separate appropriately, and there is no oversight!
1576 None!
1577 I can't think of any
1578 Sometimes out of town and may miss collection day. Therefore important to still have
drop off containers
1579 None
1581 None
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Attachment B - Iowa Recycling Programs
*Ames & Ankeny: Free market for trash, pricing varies. Ames is also free market for recycling, the rate provided is an
average of the two haulers who offer recycling.
**Cedar Falls: Free market for recycling, $20 is the rate charged by the only hauler who offers weekly curbside recycling.
***Cedar Rapids: Only offers a 35-gallon trash cart.
$17.86 $17.50 $14.00 $14.65
$20.00
$5.02 $8.50 $4.85
$11.00
$4.58
$37.86
$22.52 $22.50
$19.50
$23.50
$16.81
$23.16
$20.00
$0
$5
$10
$15
$20
$25
$30
$35
$40
Ames*Ankeny*Cedar
Falls**
Cedar
Rapids***
Iowa City North
Liberty
Coralville Des
Moines
Dubuque Waukee
Monthly Fees
Trash (65 gal)Recycling Trash (65 gal) & Recycling Combined
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Trash Recycling Trash &
Recycling
Recycling
Access
Recycling
Cart Size
(gal)
Recycling
Pickup
Frequency
Recycling
Cart
Ownership
Recycling
Collection
Operated By
Ames Free market $11.00 - Drop-off
only - - Free market Free market
Ankeny Free market $4.58 - Universal 48 - 96 Biweekly Waste
Authority Contractor
Cedar Falls $9.46 -
$27.84 $20.00 $29.46 -
$47.84
Drop-off
only - - Free market Free market
Cedar
Rapids $17.50 $5.02 $22.52 Universal 65 Weekly City City
Coralville - - $20.67 -
$23.50 Universal 65 Weekly City City
Des Moines - - $16.81 -
$17.91 Universal 96 Biweekly City City
Dubuque - - $17.25 -
$32.53 Universal 18 - 96 Weekly City City
Iowa City $14.00 $8.50 $22.50 Universal 65 Weekly City City
North
Liberty
$7.65 -
$14.65 $4.85 $12.50 -
$19.50 Universal 65 - 96 Weekly Contractor Contractor
Waukee - - $20.00 Universal 65 - 96 Weekly Contractor Contractor
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Residential Curbside Recycling Program
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
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Background
•Seeking Council direction on five key topics
1.Level of Access
2.Provider
3.Cart Ownership
4.Frequency of Service
5.Cart Size
•Direction will be incorporated into a
Request For Proposals (RFP)
•Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C)
•Increased recycling will be necessary due to:
•Ending waste-to-energy approach
•Desire to minimize tonnage of waste hauled to
Carroll County
•Iowa DNR fee – incentive to divert
•Alignment with Climate Action Plan
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Survey Results
September 2 - 30, 2025
1,543 responses
•92% indicated they would participate in curbside
recycling
•72% agreed that every other week pickup would
be sufficient
•70%+ support for maintaining drop-off sites
•49% requesting smaller cart options
•79%+ feel confident recycling all material types
•Respondents were most uncertain about
plastic types
Top 3 Barriers
Identified
% of
Respondents
Cost 20%
Space for carts 15%
Material uncertainty 8%
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1. Level of Access
Staff Recommendation:
A.Universal access with
all households
provided a cart
Level of Access Description
Estimated
Participation
Rate
(households)
Estimated
Diversion
Rate
(waste
tonnage)
OPTION D:
Drop-off site(s) only
Current approach. Lowest level of waste
diversion. 10%< 5%
OPTION C:
Curbside opt-in
Only residents who opt in will be charged for the
service and receive a cart. Higher fees likely, as
costs would be spread among a smaller rate
base.
20% - 30%~5%
OPTION B:
Curbside universal
charge, must opt-in to
receive a cart
All eligible residents are charged for the service
but must opt in to receive a cart. More complex
cart delivery logistics.
30% - 40%~10%
OPTION A:
Curbside universal
access
All eligible residents are charged for the service
and receive a recycling cart. Some increased
risk of contamination.
75%30%+
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2. Provider
a)City-wide contract with one provider
•All participants charged a fee on their utilities bill
•Lower fees likely, consistent service and rules city-wide, full
transparency into diversion and participation, reduced truck traffic
•However, eliminates ability to choose a service provider
b)Require existing haulers to offer curbside recycling as a service
•Residents continue to coordinate services directly with haulers
•Two of seven existing haulers currently offer curbside recycling
•Less involvement from the City to establish and manage the services
•However, higher volume of truck traffic, varying services and
recycling rules, and little ability to track diversion rates
Staff Recommendation:
a)Solicit proposals for a City-
wide contract with a single
provider.
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3. Cart Ownership
Approximately 14,500 carts would be needed. Under each option, the contractor would
handle cart delivery, maintenance, and repair services.
a)City-owned, contractor-procured:
•Contractor furnishes and maintains City-branded carts, which are amortized
over the contract; after this period, City assumes ownership.
•$1 added cost per month, per household, for five years.
•Carts are expected to last 15-20 years.
b)City-owned, city-procured:
•City independently procures carts for approximately $900,000 in capital.
Customer fees would repay the City for this investment.
•$0.50 cost per month, per household, for ten years (maintenance not included).
c)Contractor-owned:
•Contractor delivers and owns all carts.
•If the City switches contractors in the future, significant costs and disruptions
to service could occur during the transition.
Staff Recommendation:
a)City-owned,
contractor-procured
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4. Frequency of Service
a)Every other week service
•Higher efficiency: fuller bins and fewer trips
•~20%-40% lower operational costs than
weekly collection
b)Weekly service
•Could result in slightly higher diversion rates
•Higher operational costs and increased truck
traffic
Staff Recommendation:
a)Every other week service
Image: https://www.rawpixel.com/image/9658286/image-public-domain-2022-work
115
5. Cart Size
a)Uniform, large cart size
•96 gallons
•Simplifies operations
•Space for more recyclables
•May be larger than necessary for
some
b)Different cart size options
•Could lead to higher satisfaction
•Higher cost and administrative
burden
Staff Recommendation:
a)Uniform, large cart size
Image: https://athensservices.com/residential-services/azusa/
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Next Steps
•Multifamily Recycling Pilot
•Also seeking approval to carry out a
multifamily recycling pilot project using
up to $20,000 in sustainability funds
•Would involve technical assistance and
an incentive to help cover initial capital
costs.
•Timeline
•Targeting summer 2026 start of service
•Comprehensive education and outreach
campaign
•Story County
•Resource Recovery System partners will
also need new methods to divert
meaningful quantities of material from
the landfill.
•Option to tag along with Ames curbside
recycling contract, develop their own, or
pursue drop-off recycling.
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