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Concord outlines single‑stream recycling rollout, offers smaller bin option after resident feedback
Summary
Town staff told the Select Board the new voluntary subscription-based single‑stream recycling program is increasing subscriptions; the town plans to seek 64‑gallon recycling containers as an alternative to the standard 96‑gallon bins and will offer overflow bag tags; low‑income subsidization is not currently available but residents are asked to contact Public Works.
At the Oct. 21 Select Board meeting, the Town Manager provided a status update on Concord’s new solid‑waste recycling program, which moves the town from a dual‑stream to a single‑stream, subscription model with automated collection.
Key points: The program is voluntary and subscription based, and current participation exceeds past levels, the manager said. The town initially issued 96‑gallon recycling containers to accommodate cardboard and larger loads; residents have raised concerns that the 96‑gallon size is too large. Staff are negotiating with the vendor (Waste Management) to obtain 64‑gallon recycling containers as a smaller option. The program also includes 35‑gallon trash carts and an overflow bag/tag system residents can purchase when needed.
Environmental and operational benefits cited: single‑stream collection reduces the number of truck trips, lowers the carbon footprint, enables the town to introduce new trucks including a fully electric trash truck, and simplifies curbside collection.
Equity and affordability: The manager said the town currently does not have a low‑income subsidy for trash or recycling subscriptions; residents who have affordability concerns are encouraged to contact Public Works for case‑by‑case assistance. Staff will explore signage to clarify seasonal restroom closures at parks and will consider resident feedback on reopening timing for future budgets.
Next steps: Staff will continue to pursue the 64‑gallon container option with the vendor, provide clearer information about disposal tags and purchase locations on the town website, and incorporate resident feedback into FY26 budget planning.
Source: Town Manager report, Select Board meeting, Oct. 21, 2024.
