Harrisonburg City Council approved a $180,000 supplemental appropriation from the Sanitation Fund Oct. 14 to purchase a recycling baler intended to compress plastics, paper and aluminum into thousand‑pound bales for brokerage and sale.

Public Works director Tom Hart told council the city currently delivers loose recyclables to local processors and generates about $12,000–$20,000 in annual revenue. With an on‑site baler, staff estimated improved quality and consolidated loads could increase revenue to roughly $80,000 annually, although Hart and staff cautioned that recycling market prices are variable.

Staff said the baler would be housed inside the existing recycling convenience center warehouse; current sanitation staff would operate the equipment for 1–2 hours per day based on current volumes. Hart said benefits include reduced truck trips (baled loads remove air volume), lower transportation cost per ton and improved marketability when sold through a broker (Circular Services).

Council members praised the operational efficiencies and potential greenhouse‑gas reductions from consolidating loads. Council member Dent observed the equipment’s purchase could be recouped in roughly 2½ years at the projected revenue level; Hart said equipment life is expected to be about 10–12 years.

Action: Council approved the appropriation by roll call (unanimous). Funds will come from the Sanitation Fund balance and procurement and broker agreements will follow normal purchasing procedures.

Ending: Public Works will buy the baler, execute a brokerage agreement, and report back on implementation; staff will explore partnerships with local institutions and neighboring jurisdictions to maximize throughput and revenue.