Recycling changes to begin
By Kelly Feser Eells

California's budget crunch is being felt all over, even at the Ventura County Pollution Prevention Center. Effective oday, Ojai residents will need an appointment to use the center, located at 5777 N. Ventura Ave.

The city's recycling coordinator, Heidi Whitman, notes that, "costs of the county program that we participate in have gone way up, more than 40 percent. Consequently, the program is going to be changing for Ojai residents, in an attempt to stay within budget."

Also effective immediately, the center will take just 10 cars (from the valley) per month. "We're encouraging residents to share appointments, so that we don't use up our spots disposing of just one or two items.

"It's extremely expensive to handle this stuff," Whitman said. "It's currently $104 per carload, up from $74 per carload last year."
However, there are other, less expensive options, "particularly for recyclable waste such as latex paint, oil, batteries and antifreeze.

"These materials are very toxic," she added, "and should be safely disposed of utilizing one of the many programs the center offers."
On the plus side, "there's a special, grant-funded program for small businesses, offering door-to-door pickup at a reduced price. This will be offered until the grant monies are used up."

© 2003 The Ojai Valley News

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