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Councilmember Wise noted Councilmember Backous had not advocated for an RFP in this <br />situation. <br />Councilmember Backous confirmed that is his position in this situation because it would take too <br />many resources, noting the current system is working. <br />Councilmember McGlone pointed out if recycling is opened to the market, the recycling fee <br />would come off the resident's bill. <br />Mr. Berkopec explained that will depend on the fee charged by the hauler. In their case, they <br />would add a fee to the garbage bill and the resident would then pay that one fee. Mr. Berkopec <br />stated for Ace Solid Waste customers, the fee would remain the same. <br />Mayor Ramsey noted residents may realize a savings with open recycling if they find a hauler <br />that charges less for recycling. <br />Councilmember Backous pointed out it would also result in more trucks on the City's roads and <br />increase maintenance costs. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated he sees problems with both but would support opening competition. <br />Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated while Anoka County has never actually pursued <br />this, by signing of the recycling agreement, whether by contract or open hauling, the County can <br />pull SCORE funding if the City does not achieve its recycling goal. <br />Councilmember Tossey asked if the recycling goal is based on tonnage information submitted by <br />Ace Solid Waste. <br />Environmental Coordinator Anderson explained the Anoka County Board of Commissioners sets <br />the recycling tonnage goal based on population, generally 175 pounds per person. The City also <br />offers recycling events and that tonnage is included in the City's total. He indicated the City had <br />been close to not meeting the recycling goal set by the County prior to going to single source but <br />from 2006 to this year the City has hit the tonnage goal each year. <br />Councilmember Tossey stated he would principally lean towards open market but meeting the <br />recycling tonnage is a concern. <br />Mayor Ramsey noted the City did not have a recycling program at that time but it now has such a <br />program and residents are participating. <br />Councilmember Elvig stated when the City got involved with Ace Solid Waste, he liked having <br />its large wheeled container with a cover. He commented on its ease of use compared to open <br />bins and indicated he recycles more because of it. Councilmember Elvig asked whether the City <br />should look at providing additional containers to encourage recycling. He stated if this service is <br />City Council Work Session / May 8, 2012 <br />Page 3 of 6 <br />