Nags Head still surveying homeowners about curbside recycling on subscription basis

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After Nags Head leaders decided to stop providing curbside recycling pick-ups this spring, a number of homeowners have said they want to see the service continue.

Town officials announced in early June they are researching the availability of a subscription-based curbside recycling collection service in which homeowners contract directly with a recycling hauler for pick-up.

And Nags Head is forming a citizens advisory committee to foster ideas that can enhance recycling and waste reduction efforts.

According to a May 28 memo to Nags Head’s Board of Commissioners from then-Town Manager Cliff Ogburn, the town has learned that Bay Disposal will consider such a service, but has not yet committed to a subscription program. They have asked the town to compile a list of at least 300 potential subscribers.

There has been 109 potential subscribers express their interest as of Tuesday, according to the town.

Bay Disposal was the town’s direct contractor for recycling, but Nags Head discontinued its agreement last month.

The company said in January the materials were being transported to a waste-to-energy facility in Portsmouth because the hauler had been unable to find a purchaser for the material.

The waste is used to generate electricity, while steam from the facility helps meet the needs of the nearby U.S. Navy shipyard.

Bay Disposal already offers similar weekly pick-ups in parts of the area, including mainland Currituck County.

The cost for the service is estimated at $15-to-$25 per month per household. Property owners and residents can contact the town to be placed on a list.

Once the town reaches the minimum number of subscribers, the list will be provided to the vendor and they will contact each subscriber directly to create an account and establish service.

The day of the week is yet to be determined. Should Bay Disposal be the recycling vendor, they plan to provide their own cart to provide the service.

Applications to be a part of the Nags Head Reduces, Reuses, and Recycles Committee are being accepted via this online form.

Interested participants will be contacted in August, with a goal of holding the first meeting in September 2020. 

If you have any questions, contact Public Information Officer Roberta Thuman by phone at 252-449-2022 or by email.

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