When will recycling begin?

A cellular-telephone policy is being considered.
By LAURE CIOFFI
VINDICATOR NEW CASTLE BUREAU
NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- Radio commercials proclaim: "The bins are coming! The bins are coming!" -- referring to Lawrence County's new recycling program -- but county commissioners say they want to know just when they're coming.
"We've had that song on the radio for at least two months," Commissioner Ed Fosnaught said. "It's taken an awful lot longer than it should [to set up the bins]. I don't understand why it's taking so long."
Amy Labi Carando, county recycling and solid waste director, said they are still working on site agreements with commercial properties and municipalities.
Two sites -- Pulaski and Hickory township municipal buildings -- already have the self-serve-style recycling bins that collect paper, cardboard, cans and glass.
Labi Carando said an agreement has been signed with Wal-Mart in Union Township, and New Castle Council is also considering a contract, but that site would likely be on private property. Perry Township and Ellwood City are also considering joining the program, she said.
Time frame
Commissioners questioned Labi Carando at Thursday's caucus meeting about the length of time it takes to get the bins to a site after a municipality or private entity has agreed.
She said the last installation of bins in Hickory Township took about 31/2 weeks to coordinate. Labi Carando said they must have the bin manufacturer in Wheatland deliver the bins, then the hauler collecting the recyclables must work that stop into the schedule.
She said they are also waiting on signs that will tell people what items can and cannot be placed in the bins.
Commissioners directed Labi Carando to come up with a plan through the end of the year outlining when and where bins will be placed and to turn it over to commissioners.
In other business, the commissioners are considering a cellular-telephone policy for the county.
Commissioners requested one be put together after it was revealed that county Treasurer Gary Felasco had used his county cellular telephone to give directions to a swinger's party in Ohio. A second telephone assigned to his office was apparently used by his wife for her personal use. Felasco has since turned in both phones.
The proposed policy requires users to reimburse the county for any nonbusiness calls, not to use the telephones for illegal or inappropriate purposes, and use a less costly alternative if readily available.
Commissioners are expected to vote on the policy Tuesday.
cioffi@vindy.com