Grant could start voluntary curbside recycling program in Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls will use a Department of Energy grant to pursue a franchise agreement with a private vendor to provide voluntary curbside recycling within city limits. It will also assist in public education efforts to enhance water conservation and storm water awareness and training. The $90,000 DOE grant came as part of a Supplemental Environmental Project in connection with the settlement of an enforcement action taken by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality for alleged violations of Hazardous Waste Management Act requirements. “These grants will allow us to move forward with these very worthwhile projects sooner than we would have been able to otherwise,” said Mayor Rebecca Casper. “Conserving our community’s natural resources-be it landfill space or precious groundwater-is part of exercising responsible stewardship and managing with sustainability in mind. We are most grateful for these funds.” The curbside recycling service is intended to be voluntary. Only city residents or businesses that want the service and are willing pay a monthly fee will sign up for it. Recycled material would be picked up twice a month in a 95-gallon container similar to the city’s new residential refuse carts. Billing would be included in the city’s regular utility billing. Additional details will be available soon. The city council also approved a $10,000 grant from the Idaho Water Resource Board. It will assist in water conservation efforts at Freeman Park.