For $3.75/month, Waste Pro will provide bins and collect your newspapers, cardboard, metal and aluminum cans, glass and plastic curbside on a weekly basis. The rate is an increase of $1 more over the current program with Waste Services of Florida, which ends in September.
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Why the change? The choice was apparently that of Waste Services which informed the city that it would not renew the contract. Some residents described the service as "spotty at best." Yet, it is rumored that the real reason for the non-renewal is the low number of users.
Overall, the number of voluntary participants of St. Pete’s recycling program have fallen far below expectations. As reported by the Tampa Bay Times—about 8,000 participants compared to a goal of 24,000 joined the program. Another Tampa Bay Times article even pointed out that many of the city’s officials who voted for the plan didn’t even opt in.
Other cities have increased recycling participation by making it mandatory. St. Pete is firm in its decision not to go that route– So the program remains completely voluntary. To sign up, call Waste Pro at 727-873-0800.
Also, this time, condo dwellers can avail of the service! However, since they cannot pick up door to door at buildings, the condo association would have to avail of the services for the entire building. You may arrange for the service by calling the same number.
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