Organics program update could bring big changes for residents

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Starting in June of 2026, residents in urban areas of Lindsay, Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, and Omemee could see changes to how their garbage and green bins are collected, following a presentation, to City Council’s Committee of the Whole, on October 7th.

Heather Dzurko, Manager of Waste Management, provided an update on the city’s Source Separated Organics (SSO) program, which launched earlier this year. The curbside green bin program has successfully diverted more than 800 tonnes of organic material from landfills, so far, but only 38 percent of eligible households are actively participating, well below the provincial goal of 50 percent waste diversion.

“To make this program successful, we need to ensure everyone has the tools and the motivation to participate,” Ms. Dzurko explained. “These recommended changes, like reducing garbage limits and collecting organics on the same day as garbage, will make participation easier and help us reach provincial targets.”

The proposed amendments to the Waste By-law include: Reducing the allowable amount of food and organic waste in garbage to 0 percent for households with green bin service. Cutting the weekly garbage bag limit to one clear, untagged bag, per household, in urban areas. Scheduling organics and garbage collection on the same day, is expected to save the city roughly $225,000 annually.

Councillor Paul Warren said, the changes will help residents understand the importance of waste diversion. “We’ve invested a lot in this program, from green bins to curbside collection. These updates will make the system fairer and encourage everyone to do their part.”

Councillor Diane Joyce added, “Coordinating collection days and adjusting bag limits isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about helping residents build good habits [which] benefit the environment. Small changes like these can have a big impact over time.”

The report will now move forward for consideration, at the next regular Council meeting. If approved, residents can expect communications and education efforts, throughout 2025, to prepare for the new rules, before they take effect in June 2026.

“Change can be challenging, but this is about investing in our community’s future,” Ms. Dzurko said. “With everyone’s cooperation, we can reduce our carbon footprint and make the most of the green bin program we’ve built together.”