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Middletown to shift bag assistance for Save As You Throw; new enforcement steps announced
Summary
City staff said Save As You Throw will move from free bag distribution to a low-cost assistance program starting Nov. 1 (5 33-gallon bags for $2; 5 15-gallon bags for $1). New enforcement will use notices and inspections with an escalating penalty, including a $30 additional pickup fee and a potential $100 fee under director regulation.
Kim, the recycling staff member, told commissioners the Save As You Throw assistance program will begin Nov. 1 with qualifications required for discounted bags: a package of 33-gallon bags will be five for $2 and 15-gallon bags five for $1. The shift replaces prior free distribution for some recipients in an effort to reduce misuse.
Kim explained the enforcement framework: automated detection will flag noncompliance, two educational notices will follow, and field inspections will use color-coded notices (green, then yellow). On a third failure the city will not pick up the cart until the household addresses the issue; an additional pickup will cost $30, and the director can set a regulation to charge $100 for pickup billed to the resident.
Kim also said housing authority residents previously received free bags but will now be enrolled automatically in the low-cost assistance program and should qualify under the new system. Commissioners discussed outreach and the role of community ambassadors to support compliance and help residents apply for the assistance option.
