May 5, 2006, FARMINGVILLE, NY –As part of the ongoing effort to find ways to get residents to recycle more, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Brian X. Foley is looking to enlist the help of residents who are and have been recycling and who feel strongly enough about it that they’re willing to help their neighbors get on board.

An assessment of curbside recycling figures for 2005 indicates a number of areas where recycling participation is below average, consequently costing the town’s taxpayers more than necessary for disposal of garbage.

In an effort to encourage the non-recyclers and avoid the necessity of enforcement action, town officials are asking for volunteers to help residents in their neighborhood to get on board. These volunteers are the residents who recycle not just because it’s the law, but because they know it is the right thing environmentally and economically. As Friends of Curby, volunteers would be asked to distribute information and assist neighbors with understanding and implementing their curbside recycling program.

“We’re looking for residents who feel so strongly about this issue that they are willing to walk their neighborhoods, knock on doors, and talk to their neighbors about the environmental and financial benefits of becoming active recyclers,” said Supervisor Foley.

Curbside recycling of designated items is mandatory under the Town Code and violations ultimately can be punishable by fines. Town officials have stated that inspections will be stepped up and penalties will be levied if residents are not doing their share to keep waste disposal costs down.

“After16 years of encouragement and education on the part of town officials, there is really no excuse for any resident to be in violation of the town’s recycling code,” Supervisor Foley added. “Residents need to understand that it’s necessary for everyone to do their share of cutting waste. There is no such place as away. When we throw something away, it still has to go somewhere, and throwing it somewhere costs taxpayers more money than recycling.”

Residents who are interested in volunteering with Friends of Curby can call the Brookhaven Department of Waste Management at 451-6222.

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Office of the Supervisor
One Independence Hill • Farmingville • NY 11738 • Phone (631) 451-6955 • Fax (631) 451-6677
www.Brookhaven.org