Q:  I can't fit everything into my recycle bin - is it OK to leave the extra bags next to the bin, or must I go to the DPW and buy an additional bin?
A: It is fine to leave the bags of paper just next to the bin. Alternatively, you can use any open topped container such as a laundry basket.  Using additional bins is not a requirement,  but it is possible to buy extra recycle bins from the town at the DPW barn at 201 Bedford Street.  They cost $6.00 each.
REMINDER: Don't put plastic bags in with your recycling.

Q:  I sometimes buy ice cream or other take out food and hate to throw away the plastic forks and spoons.  What should I do with them?  Can they be recycled?
A:  You could wash them (some are sturdy enough to be washed in a dishwasher) and re-use them.  It can be convenient to leave them in your car to be sure that some are available when needed while traveling, etc.  You could avoid using them by keeping a set of actual stainless ware in your car, purse, briefcase or other place and using that instead.  Single items can often be bought in thrift stores, or you can get sometimes get a little knife/fork/spoon set at camping stores very cheaply, and keep them with you.  You could also get into the habit of taking a resealable container with you to restaurants in case of leftovers, to avoid using single use packaging. If you drink coffee, a great way to get started with this kind of source reduction is to take advantage of the offers at some places to refill your own cup.  The way it works at many of the local coffee places such as Brugger's,  Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts and others is that you buy a mug  from them originally and then take it in with you for a refill, rather than using a paper or polystyrene cup.  As an added inducement to use these refillable mugs, some of the places give one refill free, or a discount off of subsequent cups.

Q:  We had the recycling bin out at the curb waiting to be collected and somebody put a bag of fast food trash in it.  The guys on the recycling truck didn't pick it up.  What should we do?
A:  It's nice that they are checking for compliance with the recycling rules - it's just a shame that you did it right and got sabotaged.  If your recycling (or trash) is not picked up on the right day, you can call the DPW at 862-1618, or Waste Management at 933-2113, or the town office building at 862-0500 ext. 252 and ask for pickup.  The replacement pickup is arranged on an individual basis - if you overslept and didn't get the bin out in time, for example, they probably won't make a special trip to pick it up.

Q: Do we need to remove labels and strapping tape from cardboard boxes before we break down the cardboard for recycling?
A: Try to remove the plastic strapping tape.  Paper tape is OK.  Paper labels can be left on.  Remember that the cardboard can't be longer than 30" on a side when you put it out for recycling - cut it or fold it to size, and secure with twine if necessary.

Got a question or a suggestion? You can reach us by calling the League of Women Voters line at 861-0123 or by email at lexrecycles@hotmail.com.  For more information, check out the SWAT web page at http://www.lexingtonma.org/swat/HomePage.htm