Councilwoman Kathy Graziano, Richmond City Council, Fourth District, announced last night the scheduling of a 2007 Richmond Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day.

During the budget process this year, Richmond City Council mandated a Richmond Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program and earmarked $150,000 for its implementation. The new program directs the Richmond Department of Public Works to establish an internal program or hire an outside vendor to operate it. Details of the plan were presented last night during the Richmond City Council Land Use, Housing and Transportation Committee, chaired by Councilwoman Graziano.

“This is an important first step in the creation of a comprehensive hazardous waste collection program for homeowners,” says Graziano. “It will go a long way in helping protect Richmond citizens, families and children from the dangers of hazardous waste.”

In 2006 Richmond City Council adopted an ordinance, patroned by Councilwoman Graziano and Councilman Chris Hilbert, mandating the program, but the Administration refused to implement it.

The Richmond Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day is scheduled to take place November 17, 2007 from noon to 4:00 pm. This free-of-charge event is scheduled as a community drop-off and will take place in the front left parking lot of the Richmond Diamond. Entrance will be from the Avenue of Champions with an exit onto Boulevard. Disposal of household hazardous waste is open to Richmond residents only, no businesses or residents of other localities will be permitted. Each participant must bring proof of Richmond residency. The Day will also include recycling of electronics, which is open to participants from any locality, and includes a small fee.

For more information, please call David Hathcock, at 320-2454.