The following questions were posed to Themba Gadebe (TG), Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) spokesperson:
• Will the EMM stop collecting black refuse bags after the roll-out of wheelie bins in Benoni? Will concessions be made for people who have not received a wheelie bin? If so, what will these be?
TG: The EMM will communicate the transition from bags to wheelie bins once the date of the transition has been communicated. No bags placed along the bins will be taken.
• When will the roll-out of wheelie bins be concluded in Benoni?
TG: The target date is the end of June 2016.
• What must people do who do not have transport or any other means to collect wheelie bins?
TG: Residents will have to contact the Benoni Waste Depot for assistance on 011 999 7649/6830.
• Was light garden refuse being collected in refuse bags? Will light garden refuse be collected in the wheelie bins?
TG: Garden refuse was allowed to be placed in black refuse bags. Garden refuse can be placed in the wheelie bins.
• How much will people have to pay for an additional wheelie bin if they would like one?
TG: Wheelie bins are distributed free of charge. Residents will only pay for the collection charge which is R129.99 per bin registered on the service account.
• Why was the media not notified of the roll-out? This would have ensured residents of Benoni knew exactly when and where to collect wheelie bins. Many residents do not know who their councillor is, meaning they have no idea where they are expected to collect their wheelie bin?
TG: The media could not be informed of the roll-out as the roll-out plan was continuously changed due to operational challenges.
• What measures has the EMM taken to notify residents in specific wards of the roll-out and collection times and points?
TG: The residents are informed through loudhailing and the ward councillor is also informed to notify residents.
• Who is responsible for collecting a wheelie bin if you live in an estate or complex?
TG: The body corporate or owner of the estate should make the necessary arrangements with the Benoni Waste Management Services for the bins to be delivered.
• Are residents allowed to mark the bins with their address?
TG: Bins can be marked as long as the visibility of the serial number and Ekurhuleni name is not blocked.
• Where should the bins be left? In the street of each home or on the grass pavement?
TG: Wheelie bins need to be placed on the pavement on the scheduled day of collection.
Also read:
Residents lambaste EMM’s organisation
‘Serious concerns’ about wheelie bins
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