Residents demand restoration of vital recycling services

Residents of eight condo associations in Methuen are voicing their frustrations over the elimination of recycling services, a decision they attribute to a lack of communication and transparency from city officials. During a recent council meeting, a representative for the affected residents detailed their ongoing efforts to engage with the city regarding the financial implications of the service removal.

The speaker highlighted that over the past 18 months, they have reached out to both the current and previous councils, providing documentation to support their claims and requesting detailed financial information on the savings generated by cutting the recycling services for 682 residents. Despite multiple requests, they reported receiving vague estimates rather than the specific data they sought.

The representative expressed concern that the decision to eliminate these services was not based on financial necessity, as the small number of residents affected would not significantly impact the city’s budget. They argued that the removal of recycling services contradicts the city’s goals of increasing recycling rates and reducing waste, pointing out discrepancies in how other residents are allowed to utilize recycling bins without restrictions.

The speaker emphasized the need for a dialogue with council members, extending an invitation for individual discussions to facilitate a resolution. They underscored the importance of restoring recycling services, particularly for senior residents who have relied on these services for over two decades.

As the council continues to deliberate on the matter, the affected residents remain hopeful for a constructive response that addresses their concerns and reinstates the recycling services they believe are rightfully theirs.