Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/149186
Sarasota News Leader August 9 & 16, 2013 Page 63 Alexander replied that the SKVA could settle on a bin design while it is proceeding to negotiate with vendors. "We could just go purchase the cans right now and put them out on the right of way without a problem?" asked architect Mark Smith, a past SKVA president. "You should be able to do so," Alexander told him, though Alexander said he would double-check to make sure the containers could stand on the right of way. Past SKVA President Russell Matthes asked Alexander's opinion of the BigBelly solar-powered recycling bins in use on the island of Venice. "They work very good," Alexander replied. A dumpster in Siesta Village sits in an enclosure, but the gates are not closed, as required In fact, he said, in many places, they become by county ordinance. Photo courtesy of Mian attraction for tourists. However, he noted, chael Shay "They're a little bit expensive" — about $3,800 to $3,900 each. "That's Michael," SKA Secretary Peter van Roekens said of Shay with a chuckle. Van "Correct," Shay said. Roekens also represents the Terrace East conIn response to a question from Smith, Alex- dominium complex at the SKVA meetings. ander said the BigBelly bins do not compact materials so tightly that heavy-duty equipment "Been there, done that," Shay said. has be used to empty them. Keeping recyclables separate from garbage, Alexander estimated that, outside Venice, four Alexander noted, is a constant concern in of the BigBelly bins are in operation in the these initiatives. county. The Parks and Recreation Department Glen Cappetta, owner of Sun Ride Pedicab, bought one from Waste Management, he said. responded, "You talk about contamination. However, Alexander and his staff have not There's no rhyme or reason [on Saturday and had enough experience with the equipment Sunday mornings]. Cans are in the garbage and trash is in the recycling [bins provided to recommend it, he noted. by the county at beach accesses]." "Is it unique enough to create interest so people wouldn't throw trash into it?" Gaddie Regarding the number of bins needed in the Village, Shay confirmed that he had identified asked. 12 spots where he felt they would be best utiOne way to fight contamination is to have vol- lized. One of those is outside The Beach Club, unteers in the Village who can direct people which, he pointed out, apparently provides to put bottles and cans in the recycling bins, bottles of water to customers as the latter are leaving at night. Alexander pointed out.