Discussing the future of recycling: Indianapolis residents asked to weigh in

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Indianapolis residents are encouraged to voice their opinions on the future of recycling in the city at a meeting Wednesday night.

Mayor Joe Hogsett and other city officials say they’re hoping to hear input and ideas from the community, about what recycling could be in Indianapolis. They say they’re hoping to find the best options for the city moving forward.

Earlier in the year, Mayor Hogsett announced he would be temporarily suspending plans for the “Advanced Recycling Center” that had been planned with Covanta through Mayor Ballard in 2014.

Then, the Indiana Court of Appeals nullified the contract.

City officials say they’re hoping to hear from the community Wednesday evening about all recycling programs in the city: not only curbside pickup, but free drop-off areas in the city, e-cycle and the tox-drop program as well.

Indianapolis’ Director for the Office of Sustainability says they’re looking to create a more sustainable program, and get more people involved.

“What we want to do is grow the program, how do we make it better, and how do we provide it for all within the community?” said Melody Park, Office of Sustainability Director.

Park says out of about 275,000 homes in Indianapolis, about 10 percent, or about 27,000 homes participate in the curbside recycling program currently.

If you want to get involved, there is a public meeting Wednesday April 6, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Garfield Park Arts Center, located at 2432 Conservatory Drive in Indianapolis.

There will be an open house where you can hear from the mayor and other city officials and hear presentations from community groups.

To sign up in advance to comment, or for more information on how to let city officials know your thoughts if you can’t make it, click here.