To the editor:
My goal is for Wellesley to implement a municipal garbage pickup system. Right now, Wellesley only has a RDF drop off trash system which has many issues that have negatively impacted residents. If a new garbage system is in place, it will be more convenient, less money, and better for the environment.
Wellesley currently operates a Recycling Disposal Facility, which is used to separate recycling, trash, and old household items. This facility is open to town residents free of charge, but Wellesley has laws and regulations, stating you need a permit from the Board of Health in order to enter. Wellesley residents who have to drop off their trash are forced to spend extra time transporting their trash, which can be difficult for families who have busy schedules.
Private garbage pickup services are expensive, making it not affordable for everyone. According to the Wellesley Public Works department, 20 percent of Wellesley residents currently pay for a private garbage pickup service such as Roy’s Recycling and WM. These services cost over $800 per year. Wellesley has partnered with Black Compost Earth for a compost pickup service, which costs $21 monthly and in total costs $263.88 dollars per year.
Other towns such as Natick already have a town-wide pickup system in place, proving a better system is possible. If Wellesley implemented a similar system, it would reduce stress, save residents time, and create a more equal solution.
In my neighborhood, my old neighbor who is in an unstable condition has to drop off his trash every week. It feels heart-breaking watching him complain about his car stinking up and having to take time out of his day to drop off his garbage. He feels he could be doing more time worthy and efficient tasks rather than a weekly inconvenience. Not having a simple town-wide balanced system in place needs to be changed as soon as possible. People need to support this issue and sign our petition to make steps towards change. Let’s make this trash talk a reality!
Thank you,
Alexander Walker
Grade 8 Student, WMS
