I received a great email (copied below) from a constituent which relates to my Notice of Motion on today's Oshawa Council Meeting Agenda - CNCL-26-34 proposing recycling containers with lids to address litter and wind-blown waste caused by open bins, particularly.
"Over the past year, I have observed recycling bins being thrown onto front lawns and driveways after collection. As a result, bins have been cracked, broken, and otherwise damaged. This not only creates an unnecessary expense for residents, but also presents a significant safety concern. When bins crack or shatter, plastic shards are often left scattered across driveways and walkways. These sharp pieces can pose a risk of injury to young children, pets, wildlife, and residents.
In my case, two of my blue recycling bins have recently been damaged during collection activities in 2026. I am requesting that these bins be replaced at the expense of the City of Oshawa, Miller Waste, and/or Circular Materials, as appropriate, given that the damage occurred as a result of collection practices and not normal wear and tear.
I would appreciate feedback from the City of Oshawa, Miller Waste, and Circular Materials regarding the following:
1. Reducing Damage to Existing Blue Bins
What measures are being taken to ensure collection staff handle blue recycling bins appropriately and reduce damage caused during collection?
2. Availability of Blue Bins with Lids
Many residents would benefit from blue recycling bins with secure lids. Is there a process to obtain lidded recycling bins, and if not, is one being considered for Oshawa residents?
3. Replacement of Damaged Bins
What is the process for residents to obtain replacement bins when they have been damaged by collection staff? I am specifically requesting replacement of my two damaged blue recycling bins at no cost to me.
As a resident and taxpayer, I believe these concerns warrant immediate attention. I would appreciate a written response outlining any current policies, planned improvements, and the steps that will be taken regarding the replacement of my damaged bins."
"Over the past year, I have observed recycling bins being thrown onto front lawns and driveways after collection. As a result, bins have been cracked, broken, and otherwise damaged. This not only creates an unnecessary expense for residents, but also presents a significant safety concern. When bins crack or shatter, plastic shards are often left scattered across driveways and walkways. These sharp pieces can pose a risk of injury to young children, pets, wildlife, and residents.
In my case, two of my blue recycling bins have recently been damaged during collection activities in 2026. I am requesting that these bins be replaced at the expense of the City of Oshawa, Miller Waste, and/or Circular Materials, as appropriate, given that the damage occurred as a result of collection practices and not normal wear and tear.
I would appreciate feedback from the City of Oshawa, Miller Waste, and Circular Materials regarding the following:
1. Reducing Damage to Existing Blue Bins
What measures are being taken to ensure collection staff handle blue recycling bins appropriately and reduce damage caused during collection?
2. Availability of Blue Bins with Lids
Many residents would benefit from blue recycling bins with secure lids. Is there a process to obtain lidded recycling bins, and if not, is one being considered for Oshawa residents?
3. Replacement of Damaged Bins
What is the process for residents to obtain replacement bins when they have been damaged by collection staff? I am specifically requesting replacement of my two damaged blue recycling bins at no cost to me.
As a resident and taxpayer, I believe these concerns warrant immediate attention. I would appreciate a written response outlining any current policies, planned improvements, and the steps that will be taken regarding the replacement of my damaged bins."
