Reversing its initial decision to scrap electronics recycling for Lake County residents, SWALCO’s Board of Directors agreed to postpone the program’s termination date in an effort to obtain further funding from surrounding communities.
“The board is in a tough position. We are committed to recycling electronics, and our residents have responded to create the most successful program in the state, but we are also faced with costs we never expected to have to pay for,” Larry Mount, a Round Lake Beach resident and chairman of SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County), said. “This voluntary funding provided by my village and others will keep the program running through the end of the year, and the five collection sites have committed to stay open.”
Walter Willis, SWALCO’s executive director, credited the Village of Grayslake with leading the campaign to save the program, noting that the municipality donated $20,000 toward its continued operation. Willis said the agency’s board plans to push for legislative change to support tech recycling.
Residents can recycle their unwanted electronics items at designated sites in Waukegan, Highland Park, Grayslake, Grant Township and Cuba Township.
“SWALCO will continue to evaluate its options to sustain this very successful recycling program, and do its best to keep the public informed about the status of the program,” Willis said.
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