THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, September 4, 2020 Page 7 TRASH | FROM PAGE 1 rocketed and tonnage for trash disposal decreased dramatically,” Mayor Christenson said. “This has resulted in huge savings for our taxpayers, particularly as solid waste charges continued to increase while the recycling markets fell apart. “The days of unlimited trash disposal are unfortunately over,” the mayor added, “but we have heard loud and clear that our residents want an alternative.” Over the summer, the City of Malden held several resident meetings, seeking feedback. In addition to hearing opinions from residents hoping for alternatives to buying blue bags, the City also heard from just as many residents who support the current system. The existing system allows them to realize the savings from their reduced trash production. “We looked at going to a fl at rate system like you see in many communities, such as Melrose,” Mayor Christenson explained. He said that under that system, residents of a two-family home would pay $400 per year for trash services. “We heard from many residents who currently can limit their trash production, where Malden residents could see a change in their trash disposal and pickup program under a new proposal by Mayor Gary Christenson which would alter the “Blue Bag” and recycling methods. (Courtesy Photo) they are spending 25 percent of that amount (per year),” the mayor said. “We therefore refocused eff orts on a system that would appeal to a diverse resident base, many of whom have already embraced the concept of trash reduction.” In response, the mayor has proposed a program where residents have the option to pay an annual trash disposal fee or continue to purchase the PAYT bags. Under the mayor’s proposal, each qualifying residential unit would receive two City of Malden–issued 35-gallon, commercial quality, covered tote barrels. One would be for recycling, and an added benefit is that residents would no longer need to separate recycling. The second would be for trash. Residents would have the option to continue to utilize the PAYT bags in those receptacles, or to purchase an annual tag for the barrel, therefore allowing them to fi ll it weekly with typical consumer trash bags. “This system first and foremost gives our residents options,” Mayor Christenson said. “Even for the resident who chooses to continue with the PAYT bags, by providing a barrel to contain the trash, we will have succeeded in keeping our streets cleaner and helping to contain rodents and other unwanted animals from getting into the trash.” Under the mayor’s proposal, residents could purchase additional barrels and tags to help meet their trash and recycling needs. Mayor Christenson has submitted a request for a $1.2 million appropriation to the City Council to fund the barrel purchase to move this initiative forGet a Better Car. 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In Malden, the 35th Middlesex includes both precincts in Ward 1, as well as Ward 3, Precinct 2 and Ward 7, Precinct 1. Since there is no Republican challenger, Donato is the de facto winner of the election. or Christenson said. “While the fi nancial future remains challenging, this is something we know our residents want, and we have therefore prioritized it, even given the uncertainty.” Donato told his supporters at a post-election celebration in Medford Square that he intends on continuing his advocacy for his constituents in both communities. “I’m going to continue to work on behalf of the people of Medford and Malden, and make sure they are heard on every issue,” Donato said. Donato has risen in the ranks of the State House leadership and now serves as Assistant Majority League on the staff of House Speaker Robert DeLeo. He has long championed causes such as aff ordable housing and children’s health and welfare issues. 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