To the editor:

In regard to Mr. Collins’ recent letter to the editor, I, too, have serious concerns regarding the new scheme proposed by the city to be foisted upon us to alter the procedures for collection of yard waste. As far as I can tell, it was done without any attempt to obtain public input. Rather it seems to be a unilateral plan from the city.

I, too, collect 10 or more cans of leaves and other yard waste most weeks. Paper bags hold much less, are harder to fill and are not inexpensive. The annual cost for me would be $250 to $300, which I am not willing to pay. Also, they, too, would need to be recycled. My mantra is: Wherever reasonably possible, rather than recycle, do not use it in the first place. No, I will not buy or use paper bags!

Or I could buy a bunch of the carts “offered” by the city to further clutter up the alley. How many would I need? No, I will not do that, either.

In short, I will reluctantly resort to the method already in use by most of our neighbors and just fill the dumpster with leaves, leaving no place for the garbage. Many of our neighbors (students) are not even willing to use the bins provided for recyclables, but rather dump their cans, paper and cardboard in the dumpster where they don’t have to lift the lid.

The city cites cost as a “reason” for the change. I submit that sufficient savings from tipping and reduced miles of trucking make separate collection of yard waste cost effective without loading more cost onto the public.