Posted at 11:30 a.m., Friday, August 31, 2001

Recycling deal struck with city

By James Gonser
Advertiser Leeward Bureau

KAPOLEI — The city has struck a deal to keep the state's only auto recycler operating.

Under the agreement, Hawaii Metal Recycling Co. would get an 80 percent reduction in the $72.25-per-ton "tipping" fees it must pay to deposit nonmetal auto parts at the city landfill. Other recyclers also would be eligible for the break.

"It's business as usual," said Jim Banigan, general manager of the company.

Hawaii Metal Recycling takes in and shreds junked cars, selling the metal for profit, but it must pay to dispose of the nonmetal parts of the car — windows, seats, carpeting — at the city's landfill. The company had said it would stop accepting derelict vehicles on Saturday that were not stripped of nonmetal items if tipping fees were not cut.

A bill being introduced by City Councilwoman Rene Mansho would cut tipping fees to all qualified recycling companies by 80 percent.

The bill still needs city council approval.

The deal was reached late yesterday.