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Lycoming County raises recycling rate and removes glass from curbside single‑stream pickup
Summary
Commissioners approved an increase in the county recycling rate (from $44 to $55 per ton) and a policy change that removes glass from curbside single‑stream collection; county officials said contamination and a lack of market value for glass prompted the change and a media release with full details will follow.
Lycoming County commissioners voted to raise the county recycling rate and change how glass is collected after officials said continuing single‑stream acceptance of glass is financially unsustainable.
During the meeting, county staff explained that contamination in single‑stream recycling and a lack of market demand for recycled glass have driven losses in the Resource Management Service budget. Officials said the current per‑ton rate of $44 will increase to $55 per ton; commissioners approved the change by voice vote.
The county will continue to offer glass recycling, but not in curbside single‑stream pickup: residents will be asked to use local drop‑off locations for glass or place glass in a separate county collection bucket where applicable. Staff framed the change as an effort to preserve the broader recycling program by reducing processing costs and contamination.
Speakers noted a public information effort is planned: a media release will provide the full schedule and details for implementation and exact rate language. At the meeting participants gave differing recollections of the release date, and staff said the press release will clarify timing and operational expectations.
Commissioners and staff emphasized that the county is not ending glass recycling, but adjusting collection methods to keep the overall program solvent. The change took effect as an approved operational policy; staff will publish details to guide residents and local haulers.
