St. Augustine leaders vetting new, cheaper recycling, trash services

St. Augustine leaders are looking at new ways to cut costs when it comes to trash.

On Wednesday the public works department told Action News Jax they’re considering upgrading garbage bins in the downtown area.

Big Belly Solar charges $5,000 for each of the two unit-trash and recycling models they’d like use to replace the current cans.

According to the company’s website, the solar powered trash compactors hold up to eight times more trash than the current bins.

The city says there are more than 40 bins. Their goal is to start by replacing approximately 15.

Those who frequent the downtown streets said large crowds during busy periods create a lot of trash and sometimes leave cans by the bay overflowing.

Maryann Pohle likes the idea of the replacement.

She explained, “We do want it to be a very relaxing experience that keeps them focused on the history as much as possible.”