Changes Coming to Recycling in Newaygo County

Changes Coming to Recycling in Newaygo County

Citing escalating costs and limited resources, Recycling for Newaygo County (RNC) will cease waste collection operations this spring. 

Changes to all Newaygo County recycling collection sites will be coming as local partners work together to ensure a sustainable recycling strategy for the county.

According to Jason DeKuiper, RNC President, the decision to discontinue waste collection was not an easy one. 

“For over 12 years, RNC has long been at the forefront of recycling efforts in our community,” he said. “But increasing costs associated with recycling and waste management make it difficult for any one organization to be sustainable in its efforts.” 

Recognizing the importance of recycling for a healthy community...

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...representatives from RNC, Fremont Area Community Foundation, and the County of Newaygo have come together to explore sustainable interim strategies for local recycling services.

“We appreciate that all these partners are working together to ensure continued access to recycling,” said Bonnie Erber, RNC Vice President.

“Thank you to our many contributors, Fremont Area Community Foundation, and several municipalities who support recycling,” added Linda Ritz White, RNC Executive Director. “Their support has provided access to more than 3,000 households through the collection sites.”

The Holton collection site will close on March 15. The future of the remaining six sites in Croton, Fremont, Grant, Newaygo, and White Cloud are under review.

“We recognize the importance of approaching these decisions in a balanced way,” said Christopher Wren, County Administrator. “We want to find a responsible solution.”

The three partner organizations are collaborating to develop a transitional plan and will seek input from residents as they work toward a more sustainable program.

​“We all recognize the importance of protecting our natural resources,” said Todd Jacobs, Community Foundation Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer. “We will keep that in the forefront as we seek the most viable solution for our community.”