Targeted rate preferred option for kerbside rubbish collection

DUNEDIN’S rubbish and recycling is a step closer to a major overhaul.

Dunedin city councillors yesterday decided targeted funding was their preferred way of funding future kerbside collection.

Last year, councillors decided they preferred a fourbin setup for kerbside collection — rubbish, recycling, glass and food scraps — and households could opt for a fifth bin for green waste.

A threebin system for rubbish, recycling and glass, and no separate service for food scraps or green waste — was chosen as an alternative option.

Staff recommended the fourbin setup be funded through targeted rates, and the fifth green waste bin be funded through a fixed user charge.

They also recommended the alternative threebin option be funded through targeted rates.

Councillors yesterday voted in favour of this option.

However, they also agreed to allow staff to consider the possibility of a payasyouthrow option for rubbish and garden waste in future, as the technology around the service improved.

The public will be consulted on both bin options in March, as part of the council’s 10year plan process, before a final decision is made.