Crested Butte moving to ‘Save as you Throw’ program

Time running out to choose what size trashcan you need…

By Mark Reaman 

The way Crested Butte does residential trash will be changing this fall. But now is the time for residents to prepare for the changes.

The town council has moved to a partnership with Waste Management for a so-called “Save as you Throw” program. The idea is that residents can choose the size of their trashcan and smaller ones are cheaper than the current 96-gallon receptacles. With that in mind, the goal is that people will be more cognizant of what they throw away in their smaller trashcan and do more recycling or just throw away less in the course of the week.

Residents can choose from three sizes of trashcans that will be provided by Waste Management. Keeping or using a 96-gallon receptacle will result in a monthly trash bill of $40.26. A 64-gallon trashcan will cost $27.23/month while households using the smallest trashcan, 32 gallons, will be charged $24.62.

Residents must inform Waste Management of what size you want for the new program, even if you want to keep your existing can, by August 29. If you fail to do so, you will be charged for the largest trashcan.

The trash company will compile the responses received and swap carts by the end of September. Swapping is expected to be done the week of September 22. The town will adjust your account, starting in October.

The initial new bin is free but for those who want to swap a second time to either a larger or smaller trashcan, there will be a $25 charge. Residents can also choose a bear-proof container.

To change out your current size trashcan, go to the Crested Butte town website or call Waste Management at 970-349-1032, extension 3.