TREENA MIELKE/Rimbey Review
While gardening supplies remain a hot ticket item this spring, in the Town of Rimbey, garbage cans have taken over as a number 1 priority for many shoppers.
Both the Rimbey Co-op and Rimbey Home Hardware report sales have been extremely good for garbage cans. Both stores ordered more containers to keep up with the increased demand. The cans sell for as little as about $14, which provides the consumer with a basic metal container with a lid to about $21 for a lidded container with wheels.
The rush on garbage cans has come about due to the town’s new bylaw that states that garbage needs to be put in a sealed container before it will be picked up.
The new rules have been cause for some people to dig their heels in protest.
One such person is Edo Deweert, a long-time Rimbey resident.
“Thirty-two years I have lived here,” said Deweert.
“And now I find myself in a position where I have to shell out money to get a container.”
Deweert understands that council opted to put the garbage bylaw in place as complaints were coming in regarding crows and animals getting into unprotected garbage bags. However, he never had that problem because he put out his garbage about an hour before the garbage truck arrived.
“I never have had my garbage picked apart,” he said.
Deweert appreciates the fact that information regarding the new garbage bylaw was made available but noted that a time frame as to when the bylaw would go into effect was never mentioned.
“I feel it was heavy-handed on council’s part.”
Deweert will break down and buy a garbage can eventually, but he won’t do it happily.
“I would be happy to comply if the town supplied it,” he said. “I am, however, a law-abiding citizen.”
Deweert said the only concern he has with the recycling program is the fact he has to drive to Bluffton to get rid of certain recyclable items.
Litter and garbage in Rimbey is a concern, said Deweert, noting that many people who eat at such fast food outlets leave their litter on the streets.
“It’s everywhere and I agree with the fact that needs to be addressed.”