Columbia, Mo. Looking to Automate Curbside Recycling System with Roll Carts

City leaders in Columbia, Mo. reviewed plans earlier this week to spend an additional $2.2 million to automate waste services with roll carts.

A consultant firm presented a report to the Columbia City Council members regarding the city’s current recycling program. RRT Engineering Consultants recommends major changes such as closing some of the city’s recycling drop-off centers.

It’s said that some people have been abusing the recycling centers by dropping off trash and old furniture. City leaders mentioned there wouldn’t be a need for all of their recycling drop-off sites if curbside recycling collection returns to the city.

“We are short of drivers. We are short of people who can go out and collect the routes. Part of the reason we’ve switched to the roll carts is so we can more efficiently collect those and make that a more attractive job. The same benefits will carry over into the recycling collections,” said Matt Nestor, Columbia Utilities Spokesman.

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