18 months to prepare for new 3-bin system
A 3-bin system is expected to be introduced in Hay Shire by July 2024 to replace the current weekly single bin collection.
Council has been successful with grant applications for the introduction of FOGO (Food Organics Garden Organics) collection and processing, as well as funding towards establishing the $2.9M recycling processing facility in Hay.
However, Council General Manager, David Webb said staff were still waiting on funding agreements for the NSW Government grant money, which was slowing the process.
“In the meantime, staff have had the Development Application and the EPA (Environment Protection Authority) licence approved for the recycling facilities and composting,” Mr Webb said.
“Staff will soon make an application to extend the licence to include the processing/recycling of tyres. The detailed design of the facility has been completed.
“Staff are also in the process of researching the inclusion of biosolids from the Sewage Treatment Plant next door, which can be blended with the compost to make a product to rehabilitate landfill and other sites.
“Ultimately it is hoped the product can gain approval to be used commercially on farms.”
Mr Webb said while there is grant funding opportunities to assist with the implementation of Stage 2 initiatives, it is anticipated the domestic waste management charges to increase by $150 per year per property to cover the cost of additional services and processing.
Council estimates the life of the tip could be extended by at least 27 years when all the steps in Stage 2 were achieved and the three-bin system implemented which would divert 80 per cent of waste from landfill. This is in line with the NSW Government’s Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041 and its mandate that 80 per cent of all waste be recycled.
NSW Government has also ordered that FOGO collection for food businesses be mandated by 2025 and for residences by 2030.
Council is also looking at options for future kerbside service once the contract with Cleanaway expires on June 30.
Staff believe that bringing the waste collection contract in-house, while line ball in terms of cost, will bring a higher level of service as well as provide an additional two jobs in the community.
Mr Webb said staff have been in discussion with Cumberland City Council regarding two of its older rear loader waste trucks, potentially saving on capital outlay. Additionally, staff have also been in discussion with Carrathool Shire Council regarding undertaking its kerbside collection and processing which could provide an opportunity to upgrade to a new side loader truck in the short-term to accommodate the additional services. Councillors will be workshopping waste management on February 16 and a further report will be brought to Council
