Recycle program in limbo

The Vienna recycling bin was removed from the city park last week, pending possible restructuring of the DOC program. According to Vienna city officials, the Department of Corrections is in the process of re-evaluating the program that utilizes inmates in the sorting process. It is not known at this time if the program will continue, and if it does continue, where the material processing will be performed.

City officials request that no recyclable materials be dropped off, until the program is re-instated. Signs are posted at the sight warning of illegal dumping.

The program was initiated in 2012 with a grant that cost the city nothing for the first year. When that grant ended, the city paid $1,500 a month to the private contractor for the service. The program was then moved to Shawnee Correctional Center earlier this year.

Last week Vienna Police Chief Jim Miller acquired a surplus bin from Fort Mead, South Dakota. (Pictured on the left.) Plans were to alternate the bins, or use the additional bin elsewhere.

Vienna city councilman Chesley Williams said he is in favor of recycling, but by his calculations the program has cost the city over $50,000 since it began.