FAQs

Recycling

• How much will curbside recycling cost customers in Hermiston?

  Residential curbside recycling will be offered at a rate of $8 per month for a 95 gallon container collected every other week.  Customers are encouraged to review their current level of service, and consider optimizing their garbage service size.  For example, a customer who rarely fills their entire 90 gallon garbage service might consider downgrading to a 35 gallon garbage service.  A change like that may still provide the customer with adequate waste/recycling removal, while actually reducing cost.

• How will the costs associated with increased recycling be covered?

  The RMA introduces Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) to shift the financial burden from end-users to producers. Producers of recyclable materials are required to join a PRO, which will collect fees from them. These funds will be remitted to the state and used to cover the costs of recycling programs, including collection, sorting, and transportation.  However, it is anticipated that funds from the PRO will not cover all startup or operational costs, and that there will be an increased monthly charge for customers.

• What can I recycle?

  The statewide list of recyclable materials can be found here:  https://recycleon.org/oregon/

• What challenges remain before curbside recycling can begin in Hermiston?

  The lone remaining challenge is now waiting for delivery of new trucks and carts.

• What is the Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) and how does it affect local communities?

  The Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) passed by the Oregon Legislature requires cities with a population over 4,000 to begin offering curbside recycling. This act aims to enhance recycling efforts across Oregon by establishing a comprehensive framework for the collection, sorting, and recycling of materials.

• What is the role of the Circular Action Alliance (CAA)?

  The Circular Action Alliance (CAA), based in Washington, D.C., is the sole PRO selected by the State of Oregon to manage the recycling responsibilities under the RMA. CAA is responsible for collecting fees from producers, planning and implementing recycling programs, and working with local governments to meet recycling needs.